Image via Adobestock.
Image via Adobestock.
The wheels are in motion to get South Africa up to Level 3 of lockdown. Cosatu wants it. The Trade Ministry wants it. Even Bheki “mayor from the Footloose town” Cele wants it. The progression to the next phase is still reliant on stable infection and mortality data, but all being well, the transition could be made in a matter of weeks. Alcohol drinkers across the land, there is light at the end of this tunnel…
At Level 3, booze returns to the shelves. But this lockdown doesn’t just end when we move out of this phase. The truth is, South Africa could find itself under some form of these restrictions right up until the end of the year, even if that means living through the lower levels for a majority of the months ahead.
If the lockdown laws change – for better or worse – the rules surrounding alcohol consumption also alter. The government has provided us with information about booze availability at each level:
(This information was correct as of 17:45 on Tuesday 12 May – the framework may be altered or changed in the future.)
Of course, this advice comes with a disclaimer. No matter what stage of lockdown we get to, those licensed to sell alcohol have been told to play by the rules – or suffer the consequences:
“Health and safety protocols must be followed at all times, including observance of guidelines for social distancing, sanitation and hygiene, and the use of appropriate personal protective equipment, such as cloth face masks, as determined by the National Department of Health.”
“At Level 3 of lockdown, people may travel to perform and acquire services only where such services cannot be provided from the safety of one’s home. A reference to a permitted level of employment must take into account the necessary social distancing guidelines as per the National Department of Health.”
Government statement