Live stream: What time is Monday’s government briefing on coronavirus?

The battle to stop the outbreak of coronavirus from crippling the country is in full swing. On Monday morning, the government will brief the nation on what happens next – and we’ve got the live stream at the bottom of the article.

How South Africa is fighting COVID-19

On Sunday evening, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced a wave of measures to protect our citizens against coronavirus. The guidelines have been welcomed by a majority of his political opponents, as South Africans prepare to adapt to the “new normal”. Last night, we saw Ramaphosa confirm the following:

• A national state of disaster is declared in terms of the Disaster Management Act.
• Travel ban on high-risk countries from 18 March 2020.
• SA citizens are asked to not travel to high-risk countries.
• Gatherings of more than a 100 people are prohibited.
• Large events and celebrations are cancelled.
• Schools closed from Wednesday 18 March until Easter weekend.
• Working closely with universities, colleges, etc to increase hygiene and put other appropriate responses in place.
• Businesses are called upon to take measures to intensify hygiene control.
• Surveillance and testing systems are being strengthened at hospitals.
• Partnering with the private sector to develop a tracing, tracking and monitoring system for all those affected by the coronavirus.
• Calling on everyone to take various personal measures as previously stated (hygiene, elbow greetings, etc.)
• Package to be put together as a response to the economic impact of the disease.
• Establishment of National Command Council chaired by president to meet three times a week to coordinate responses to pandemic.

What time does the coronavirus briefing start on Monday 16 March?

We can confirm that the briefing is meant to get underway at 10:00. Now, that’s the official time – but judging by Cyril Ramaphosa’s timekeeping and communicative skills on Sunday, we could be a bit later. Ramaphosa got it in the neck for being an hour and 40 minutes late to an already postponed press conference. Following Monday’s ministerial briefing, a Nedlac meeting will also take place:

The Nedlac Social Partners will have an urgent Special Executive Council meeting to engage on the economic and labour market impacts of the #COVID19 in South Africa and discuss measures to be taken by all social partners. #CoronavirusInSA pic.twitter.com/FqG0x3yPuk

— South African Government (@GovernmentZA) March 16, 2020

Live stream: Watch the government briefing on coronavirus here:

[Stream will appear just before 10:00]