The South African Covid-19 death rate has passed the 20 000 mark and closer to home in the City, we have regrettably lost 29 colleagues.
We have also lost family and friends to the virus, which to date has no cure. According to the National Institute for Communicable Diseases, since Tuesday, 10 November 2020, 60 new deaths have been reported: Eastern Cape 24, Free State 19, Gauteng 2, Kwa-Zulu Natal 1, Mpumalanga 2, North West 2, Northern Cape 6 and Western Cape 4, which brings the total to 20 011 deaths.
More than 51 million people have been infected globally, and at least 1.2 million people have died.
Speaking the nation this week, President Cyril Ramaphosa urged South Africans to be vigilant, to practice all health protocols to prevent the spread of the virus and to care for the vulnerable and weak.
“But we can avoid a second wave if we each play our part if we remember what we need to do to keep ourselves and others safe. From the big cities and metros to the smallest towns and villages, we all know about this virus,” the president said.
“From the Grade R learner to the factory worker, from the university student to the grandparent at home, we all know how the coronavirus can be spread. So what I am asking of each and every one of you this evening is not something new. I am asking you to do what you know must be done.
“We extend our condolences to the loved ones of the departed and thank the health-care workers that treated the deceased patients,” said President Ramaphosa.
He said many South Africans had had to bid farewell to a loved one, a friend or a colleague.
“As we look back on a year of much pain and sorrow, it is important as a nation that we should honour and remember all those who have succumbed to this disease.
“It will be appropriate that during the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children – which is the second pandemic we are confronting – we demonstrate our remembrance of all those who have departed due to the Covid-19 pandemic and gender-based violence.
“Cabinet has decided that from 25 to 29 November, the nation should embark on five days of mourning for the victims of Covid-19. We will let the national flag fly at half-mast throughout the country from 6am to 6pm from Wednesday 25 November to Sunday 29 November,” said President Ramaphosa.
He has urged all South Africans to wear a black armband or other signs of mourning to signify our respect for those who have departed.
Written by Mongadi Mafata
