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Covid-19

Media Release: Update on the coronavirus by Premier Alan Winde – 4363 residents have recovered from Covid-19 in the Western Cape

19 May 2020

As of 1pm on 19 May, the Western Cape has 6195 active cases, 10558 total confirmed cases of Covid-19 infection and 4363 recoveries.

 Total confirmed COVID-19 cases 10558
Total recoveries 4363
Total deaths 183
Total active cases (currently infected patients) 6195
Total number of tests 96991
Patients in hospital Hospitalizations- 440

High care/ICU- 128

Sub Districts Cape Town Metro:

 Sub-district Cases Recoveries
Western 1127 545
Southern 1123 390
Northern 671 289
Tygerberg 1721 760
Eastern 983 478
Klipfontein 1257 514
Mitchells Plain 1068 384
Khayelitsha 1420 603
Total 10558 4363

Sub Districts Non-Metro:

District  Sub-district Cases Recoveries
Garden Route Bitou 9 6
Garden Route Knysna 25 16
Garden Route George 27 16
Garden Route Hessequa 8 7
Garden Route Mossel Bay 27 19
Garden Route Oudtshoorn 5 3
Cape Winelands Stellenbosch 73 28
Cape Winelands Drakenstein 160 40
Cape Winelands Breede Valley 50 35
Cape Winelands Langeberg 6 4
Cape Winelands Witzenberg 210 157
Overberg Overstrand 24 15
Overberg Cape Agulhas 2 2
Overberg Swellendam 11 4
Overberg Theewaterskloof 21 4
West Coast Bergrivier 19 1
West Coast Saldanha Bay Municipality 21 4
West Coast Swartland 29 11
     

Unallocated: 457

Additional data can be accessed on the dashboard at www.westerncape.gov.za/coronavirus

The Western Cape has recorded an additional 18 COVID-19 deaths-bringing the total number of deaths from the virus in the province to 183. We extend our condolences to their loved ones at this time.

The scientific reason for the Lockdown has been to prepare our health system for the peak

Today I provided a detailed updated on our government’s preparations for the Covid-19 pandemic. The scientific reason for the Lockdown, and which has been made clear by experts, was to buy us time to prepare for the peak that will inevitably come. The virus cannot be stopped and will continue to spread throughout the country.

We have been working around the clock to make sure that we are prepared and that every resident that requires healthcare gets it when they need it. This has included:

  • R725.5 million has been committed towards Covid-19 related expenditure across the Western Cape Government.
  • We have established a dedicated Coronavirus Provincial Hotline for residents to call, that has received a total of 28 500 calls since 16 March 2020. On average it receives 500 calls a day.
  • The conversion of the CTICC into a temporary hospital facility that will provide some 850 additional beds at the peak of the pandemic is well underway.
  • In total, this facility will include 4 wards – a mixed staffing model of temporary appointments, temporary re-deployment of staff, agency staff (medical -, infectious disease -, emergency – and internal medicine specialists and volunteers will be applied at the facility).
  • It is estimated that 200 admissions and 200 discharges will be managed per day during the peak.
  • We will open additional temporary hospitals along the R300 in the Metro, in Khayelitsha and in the Cape Winelands that collectively provide an additional 616 beds.
  • This is in addition to the Western Cape’s 2 162 (includes 658 through expansion) general care beds and 150 ICU beds that exist in Central and Regional Hospitals across the province.
  • We have opened 18 testing and triage centres (12 are already operational) to provide additional support at these facilities.
  • We have 3888 Community Health Workers operating across our province, with a further 464 due to start work soon
  • We have increased the number of tests from 7 975 on 1 April to 94 275 on 18 May. This is an increase of 1182%. This represents a testing ratio of 1347.27 per 100 000, the highest in the country.
  • Using our targeted hotspot approach, we have screened 473 348 people, and referred 12 095 people for testing.
  • We launched an online screening tool which has assisted in screening 62 200 people.
  • We have recruited 1 645 volunteers to support our healthcare workers when this peak arrives.
  • We have ordered R350 487 835.00 million worth of PPE so that our healthcare workers have the protection they need to care for every sick person. We aim to procure R550 million worth of PPE over the course of the pandemic.
  • In the public sector we have provided 86 129 flu vaccinations thus far – 65 670 vaccinations to vulnerable groups of people and 20 459 vaccinations to healthcare workers.
  • Since the pandemic, we have de-escalated non-essential operations at our healthcare facilities in the Western Cape, which has freed up existing ward capacity in these hospitals (Central and Regional – in relation to the 2 162 general beds and 150 ICU beds) to care for Covid-19.
  • We have 432 ventilators and have ordered an additional 100 ventilators to be used at the peak and use our current piped medical gas for high-flow oxygen treatment.
  • We have 19 Quarantine and Isolation facilities available offering 2365 beds.
  • We are activating an additional 9 facilities which will realise an additional 2292 beds.
  • We have launched the Red Dot Transport Service, that through 100 minibus taxis, will transport healthcare workers home when their shift ends at 19h00, given the limitation on the public transport system to operate after 19h00.
  • The Red Dot Transport Service will also safely transport those who test positive for Covid-19 to facilities if they cannot isolate safely at home and others to quarantine facilities should they need it.

For more information on what we have done across government departments, visit the following link: https://coronavirus.westerncape.gov.za/news/western-cape-has-prepared-its-healthcare-system-peak-and-must-move-level-3-conjunction-targeted

This is precisely why, that given our robust healthcare system preparation and that we will continue to rigorously intervene in hotspots, we must open more of our economy over time. Not allowing this to happen will threaten lives in the future as an unpreceded humanitarian crisis unfolds, and this cannot be ignored by any level of government.

I want to again reiterate that this cannot be done alone. We need the help of every single person in our team effort to slow the spread, and “flatten the curve”. When you keep yourself safe, through practicing good hygiene, keeping your distance, and wearing a mask properly, you help keep vulnerable people who are at higher risk safe too. Your actions can save lives, and we need every person to continue to be our partner in this Covid-19 response.

Media Release: Contractors on site to ensure speedy housing handover

Media Release

CONTRACTORS ON SITE TO ENSURE SPEEDY HOUSING HANDOVER

19 May 2020

Western Cape Minister of Human Settlements, Tertuis Simmers says he is pleased to see that progress is being made at the construction sites he has visited so far.

Minister Simmers said: “Concluding another visit to the Forest Village project in Eersteriver, yesterday and visiting the Vlakkeland and Dal Josafat projects in the Drakenstein municipality, which is part of the Cape Winelands District Municipality today, I am convinced that our beneficiaries will not have to wait too long before moving into their homes.

Forest Village will within the next few weeks deliver 267 units, while 64 will be ready for handover in Vlakkeland. Other Districts, such as the Overberg, Garden Route, West Coast, and Cape Metro are also ensuring that minor repairs are speedily concluded.

We remain committed to improving the lives of the most vulnerable, which includes the elderly, disabled, backyard dwellers and those longest on the housing waiting list

The Cape Winelands District Municipality, after the Cape Metro, has the second highest COVID-19 infection rate in the Western Cape, with 456 cases. The majority of their cases being in Witzenberg, with 205 and Drakenstein, with 134. The immediate occupancy of homes will assist in fighting COVID-19, as it will help to maintain social distancing, while strengthening the practice of effective and good hygiene.

As much as Alert level 5 denied our beneficiaries the opportunity to move into their homes sooner, we have a chance to ensure that there are no further and unnecessary delays. I call on beneficiaries to be a little more patient and allow the contractors to apply the finishing touches to their homes.

We have much to look forward to and I cannot wait to share this joyous occasion with our people.

As the Western Cape Government, we remain committed to accelerating human settlement delivery, while promoting social inclusion through the development of integrated, resilient, safe and sustainable human settlements in an open opportunity society.”

Media Enquiries:

Marcellino Martin

Spokesperson for Minister Tertuis Simmers

Marcellino.martin@westerncape.gov.za / 021 483 3397 (o) / 082 721 3362 (m)

or

Mr. Nathan Adriaanse

Director: Communication and Stakeholder Relations

Tel: 021 483-2868 / Cell: 083 263 1720

Media Release: Opening private sector construction critical to saving over 100 000 jobs

MEDIA RELEASE BY DAVID MAYNIER

WESTERN CAPE MINISTER OF FINANCE AND ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES

Date: 19 May 2020

Release: immediately

Note to media – Minister Maynier will be visiting a construction site in Cape Town impacted by Alert Level 4 restrictions this afternoon.
If any media would like to receive video, photos and soundbytes from the site visit, please do contact me.

Opening private sector construction critical to saving over 100 000 jobs

An urgent review of the restrictions on the private sector construction is required if we are to avoid a collapse of the construction sector in South Africa.

And so, today (19 May 2020), I have written a letter to Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional affairs, Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, with an attached submission, requesting that under Alert Level 4 restrictions, construction be allowed to expand operations beyond public sector engineering and construction, to include commercial, industrial and private residential construction, together with construction by public entities, and to permit the upscaling of manufacturing of construction supplies beyond 50 per cent sector employment. These proposals incorporate aspects of the draft Alert Level 3 and 2 provisions – all of which we believe can safely be implemented immediately.

It is estimated the impact on the construction sector of the Covid-19 pandemic could cost the Western Cape 111 416 direct and indirect jobs in 2020, and a loss of R14.9 billion in income to people employed in this sector. Opening up private construction as soon as possible, which we believe can safely be done under Alert Level 4, will help prevent these job losses.

The construction sector is a vital component of the South African economy. In 2019, the sector was valued at R172 billion in South Africa and contributed approximately R32 billion to the Western Cape’s total gross value added.

The construction sector was already under pressure pre-Covid 19, having contracted by 3.3% in real terms on 2019. It is estimated that in the Western Cape the sector could experience a further contraction of approximately 41% in 2020, followed by a 10% contraction in 2021 as a result of current restrictions. This translates to a loss of R12.9 billion in 2020 and R3 billion in 2021.

Importantly, the construction sector plays a critical role in attracting fixed capital investment to South Africa that not only supports current economic growth but is also a catalyst for future economic growth and economic potential. By revising the current Alert Level 4 restrictions, we can help to ensure that the construction sector survives and is able to play a role in our economic recovery post COVID-19.

Now more than ever, businesses need to be able to continue to trade safely and responsibly to ensure that we save jobs, livelihoods and the economy during the Covid-19 crisis. The private sector construction presents an opportunity for just that.

Under normal circumstances the sector already complies with very high health and safety standards, and as such, the implementation and regulation of additional measures to ensure safe operations to stop the spread of Covid-19 would not be very difficult for companies.

If the construction sector is able to operate safely for the purposes of public sector engineering and construction, we see no reason why this can’t be extended to the entire construction sector. In doing so, we can significantly impact on the ability for the economy to open in the Western Cape and South Africa, to save jobs and get more people working safely during the Covid-19 crisis.

Notes for media: 

To view the statement online, together with the submission to COGTA, visit: https://www.westerncape.gov.za/news/opening-private-sector-construction-critical-saving-over-100-000-jobs

Note for business: For more info on health guidelines and Covid-19 resources for business visit: https://coronavirus.westerncape.gov.za/frequently-asked-questions/frequently-asked-questions-how-prevent-and-manage-covid-19-infections

Media Queries:

Francine Higham

Spokesperson for the Provincial Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities

(Responsible for the Provincial Treasury and the Department of Economic Development and Tourism)

Cell: 071 087 5150 / Email: francine.higham@westerncape.gov.za

19 May 2020 Media Release: Alert Level 4 Regulations – Business who are allowed to operate

Media Release: Alert Level 4 Regulations – Businesses who are allowed to operate

For Immediate Release
19 May 2020

Alert Level 4 Regulations – Business who are allowed to operate

A Risk-Adjusted Strategy based on a “deliberate and cautious approach to ease lockdown restrictions” is currently still in place in South Africa.  As from 1 May 2020, lockdown restrictions were eased from an alert level 5, to an alert level 4 during which a number of non-essential businesses were permitted to open, with the condition that they implement a number of measures to stop the spread of COVID-19.

Alert level 4 simply means that South Africa now embark on a staged re-opening of its economy; that some identified services and activities may resume under strict regulations, subject to extreme precautions required in order to limit community transmission and outbreaks.

According to the Disaster Management Act:  Regulations, alert level 4 gazette on 29 April 2020 no 43258; the following businesses are allowed for the time being:

AGRICULTURE, HUNTING, FORESTRY AND FISHING:

All agriculture, hunting, forestry, fishing and related services, including the export of agricultural products permitted.  Essential fishing operations, horticulture, forestry and beekeeping.

Regulations Gazetted on the 29th of April 2020 no. 43258, Table 1, Part A

ELECTRICITY, GAS AND WATER SUPPLY

All electicity, gas and water supply is permitted.

Regulations Gazetted on the 29th of April 2020 no. 43258, Table 1, Part B

MANUFACTURING

Manufacture of wholesale and retail products permitted to be sold under Alert level 4, all input products, permitted scaling up to full employment except where otherwise indicated, and subject to strict health protocols.

Manufacture of paper and paper products; plastics and packaging, including glass; ect.

Regulations Gazetted on the 29th of April 2020 no. 43258, Table 1, Part C

CONSTRUCTION AND RELATED SERVICES:

Civil engineering for public works projects, critical public works construction, road and bridge projects and other public works civil engineering projects. Critical maintenance and repairs are also allowed.

Regulations Gazetted on the 29th of April 2020 no. 43258, Table 1, Part D

WHOLESALE & RETAIL TRADE, COVERING STORES, SPAZA SHOPS, ECOMMERCE AND INFORMAL TRADERS

Food products, including non-alcoholic beverages and animal food.  The sale of hot cooked food, only for home delivery.   Toiletries, cleaning, protective, baby care, children’s clothes.  Stationery & educational books, winter clothing, bedding heating and medical suppliers.  Fuel, coal, wood, gas, car sales, e-commerce, hardware supplies, ect.

Regulations Gazetted on the 29th of April 2020 no. 43258, Table 1, Part E

INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION SERVICES

All telecommunication services and infrastructure; information and communication technology services for all private and business customers; and postal services and courier services for all products and services allowed under Level 4.

Regulations Gazetted on the 29th of April 2020 no. 43258, Table 1, Part F

MEDIA AND ENTERTAINMENT SERVICES

Online services; productions for local broadcast; and live streaming of “the creative sector” in support of Covid-19; and newspapers and broadcasting.

Regulations Gazetted on the 29th of April 2020 no. 43258, Table 1, Part G

FINANCIAL AND BUSINESS SERVICES

If possible, work from home, Banks, the “payments” sector, insurers, savings and investment companies, medical schemes and outsourced administration are among the sectors that can operate. Private security services, call centre’s, essential financial services and payroll-related workers. Other professional services may operate only where work-from-home is not possible, and only to support other Level 4 services.

Regulations Gazetted on the 29th of April 2020 no. 43258, Table 1, Part H

ACCOMMODATION & FOOD SERVICES 

Accommodation not permitted, except for quarantine and essential services. Food delivery between 9am – 7pm, subject to curfew; no sit-down and no pick-up allowed.

Regulations Gazetted on the 29th of April 2020 no. 43258, Table 1, Part I

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS, STORAGE AND COMMUNICATION SERVICES PERMITTED

Ocean, rail, road and air transport of goods permitted only for activities set out in Regulation 22(1). Cargo for domestic & other countries based on essential goods and level 4 services.  E-hailing services subject to restrictions on capacity and times.  Public rail, minibus taxi and bus services will resume at Alert Level and on terms as set out in Directions. Transport and logistics in respect of specified cargo specified in J1.

Regulations Gazetted on the 29th of April 2020 no. 43258, Table 1, Part J

MINING AND QUARRYING

Coal production for Eskom scaling up to full employment.  All other mining starting in batches scaling up towards 50% employment. Open-cast mining scaling up to a baseline of 50% and thereafter scaling up to full employment.

Regulations Gazetted on the 29th of April 2020 no. 43258, Table 1, Part K

REPAIR AND RELATED EMERGENCY SERVICES PERMITTED

Tow trucks and vehicle recovery services.  Emergency repair work including plumbers, electricians, locksmiths, glaziers and roof repair work.  Emergency automobile repairs for all persons.

Regulations Gazetted on the 29th of April 2020 no. 43258, Table 1, Part L

SUPPLY CHAINS

Production, manufacturing, supply, logistics, transport, delivery, critical 1 maintenance and repair in relation to the rendering of permitted services including components and equipment.

Regulations Gazetted on the 29th of April 2020 no. 43258, Table 1, Part M

PRIVATE HOUSEHOLDS EMPLOYMENT

Live-in staff, and staff providing care to the sick, mentally ill, elderly, people with disabilities and children.

Regulations Gazetted on the 29th of April 2020 no. 43258, Table 1, Part N

PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION, GOVERNMENT SERVICES AND OTHER ARMS OF THE STATE

Only essential government and administration services may operate.

Regulations Gazetted on the 29th of April 2020 no. 43258, Table 1, Part O

HEALTH, SOCIAL AND PERSONAL SERVICES

All medical and veterinary services.  Cleaning, sanitation, pest control, sewerage, waste and refuse removal services.  All social work, counselling, services supporting gender based violence, care and relief activities permitted.  Wildlife management, anti-poaching, animal care and veterinary services.  Funeral and cremation services.  Trade union essential staff for workers covered by Alert Level 4.

Regulations Gazetted on the 29th of April 2020 no. 43258, Table 1, Part P

EDUCATION SERVICES

Permitted on dates and schedules set out separately.

Regulations Gazetted on the 29th of April 2020 no. 43258, Table 1, Part Q

The regulations also outlined the conditions and restrictions of the alert level 4 lockdown, and placed a number of obligations on employers engaged in essential and permitted services to contain the spread of COVID-19.  Prior to operating from their premises, businesses must develop a “COVID-ready” workplace plan in terms of Regulation 16. According to the guideline provided in Annexure E of the Regulations, there are a number of requirements that the workplace plan must comply with. It should also be visible and retained for inspection purposes.  In addition to the workplace plan, businesses must designate a COVID-19 Compliance Officer to oversee the implementation of the plan and to ensure adherence to the standards of hygiene and health protocols at each workplace (office/location).

Under these guidelines, returning employees must wear masks at work. Employers must also require members of the public entering a workplace to wear masks.  Employers must provide each employee, free of charge, with at least two cloth masks to wear while at work or commuting.

The employees with COVID-19 symptoms must not be at work and employers must grant paid sick leave or apply for COVID-19 temporary employee/employer Relief Scheme (TERS) benefits.  Measures must be taken to minimise the contact between workers and between workers and the public in order to prevent transmission.  The number of workers in the workplace must also be minimised through shift or working arrangement to achieve social distancing.

Employers are also required to report any diagnosis of COVID-19 at work to the Health Department and the Labour Department of Employment and, investigate the cause, and take appropriate measures.

Social distancing

With regard to social distancing, workplaces must be arranged to ensure a minimum of 1.5 meters between workers.  If this is not practicable, physical barriers must be erected and workers must be supplied free of charge with appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Social distancing must be implemented in all common areas in and around the workplace to prevent crowding, including working spaces, canteens and meeting rooms.

Screening

In relation to screening, employers must screen workers for symptoms of COVID-19 at the time that they report for work.  Workers with symptoms must be placed in isolation and arrangements made for their safe transport for a medical examination or for self-isolation.  Employees who recover from COVID-19 may return to work after a medical evaluation and subject to ongoing monitoring, in line with instructions of the Department of Health.

Sanitisers and disinfectants

Employers are also required to provide sufficient quantities of hand sanitiser with at least 70% alcohol content. Communal and shared equipment must be regularly cleaned and disinfected.

 Enforcement by labour inspectors

In relation to enforcement, labour inspectors are empowered to promote, monitor and enforce compliance with the directives. Failure to comply with the directives may result in the closure of contravening businesses.

Media Release: Update on the coronavirus by Premier Alan Winde

18 May 2020

As of 1pm on 18 May, the Western Cape has 6031 active cases of Covid-19, with a total of 9927  confirmed cases and 3731 recoveries.

Total confirmed COVID-19 cases 9927
Total recoveries 3731
Total deaths 165
Total active cases (currently infected patients) 6031
Total number of tests 94275
Hospital admissions 424 with 111 in ICU or high care

Sub Districts Cape Town Metro:

Sub-district Cases Recoveries
Western 1059 517
Southern 1020 340
Northern 648 245
Tygerberg 1597 624
Eastern 934 408
Klipfontein 1195 434
Mitchells Plain 965 312
Khayelitsha 1345 493
Total 8763 3373

Sub Districts Non-Metro:

District  Sub-district Cases Recoveries
Garden Route Bitou 9 6
Garden Route Knysna 25 17
Garden Route George 27 16
Garden Route Hessequa 8 7
Garden Route Kannaland 1 0
Garden Route Mossel Bay 26 19
Garden Route Oudtshoorn 4 3
Cape Winelands Stellenbosch 64 24
Cape Winelands Drakenstein 134 28
Cape Winelands Breede Valley 47 31
Cape Winelands Langeberg 6 3
Cape Winelands Witzenberg 205 146
Overberg Overstrand 24 15
Overberg Cape Agulhas 2 2
Overberg Swellendam 10 2
Overberg Theewaterskloof 17 2
West Coast Bergrivier 19 1
​West Coast ​Cederberg ​1 ​0
West Coast Matzikama 2 1
West Coast Saldanha Bay Municipality 23 2
West Coast Swartland 30 9
       

Unallocated: 479  (24 recovered)

One case previously allocated to Langeberg, has been re-allocated based on updated address data.

Additional data can be accessed on the dashboard at www.westerncape.gov.za/coronavirus

The Western Cape has recorded an additional eight COVID-19 deaths-bringing the total number of deaths from the virus in the province to 165. We send our condolences to the family and the loved ones of the deceased at this time.

Recovery from serious illness:

Earlier today, Health Minister Nomafrench Mbombo visited the Gatesville Melomed Hospital to celebrate the recovery of Bathandwa Zuzo, from Gugulethu.

Minister Mbombo said: “Mr Zuzo tested positive for COVID-19 and was admitted on the 26 April 2020, with severe respiratory problems. He was in ICU and on ventilators for 3 weeks. This also serves to demonstrate the strength of our health system and to showcase our health professionals’ skills in dealing with this pandemic. This is a powerful story of a man who survived the most severe case of this virus, I hope this will give hope to the people who have been diagnosed with COVID-19.”

It is also important that we show our support for those who are ill- and treat them with kindness and care on their path to recovery.

Minister Madikizela launches Red Dot transport service:

Today the Western Cape Minister of Transport and Public Works, Bonginkosi Madikizela, launched the Red Dot Service. This forms part of our targeted hotspot response strategy for the Covid-19 pandemic in the Western Cape. This partnership between the Western Cape Government and the minibus taxi industry will deliver critical transport services needed during this challenging time.

This Red Dot service (which refers to the sticker on the bus) will provide a chartered transport service for those Department of Health employees who need to travel for work between 19:00 and 05:00. This is difficult outside of these hours because of limitation of transport under Alert Level 4 restrictions.

From 1 June, the service will also  transport citizens who have tested positive for COVID-19 or are at high-risk of having been exposed to the virus to public isolation and quarantine centres in the Western Cape.  The fleet will initially comprise 100 minibuses and will follow strict safety and hygiene protocols, including the rigorous cleaning and sanitization of vehicles after every trip.

We are extremely thankful to SANTACO Western Cape for supporting this initiative, as we find innovative ways to make sure that we can assist our residents.

Minister Anroux Marais supports creativity for young learners during the lockdown:

The Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport announced educational resources available for young learners during the Lockdown. An online resource portal for NGOs to share has been developed through a  partnership of the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport’s After School Programme, the Learning Trust, ASSITEJ-SA, and the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation. The Department is also developing printed materials to be used by learners who can’t access the material online, while the site is being zero-rated.

I am grateful for the support of these organisations, as we continue to ensure the education of our children receives the attention it deserves. To view or contribute to this resource, please visit the Treasure Box.

Minister Tertius Simmers announces new homes as government work continues through the pandemic:

Yesterday Minister Simmers announced that 1371 beneficiaries will benefit from new homes that are ready to be handed over across the Western Cape. This includes 267 houses in the Cape Metro and some 229 housing opportunities in Ceres, which is within the Witzenberg municipality. Our government is continuing to work hard throughout this pandemic to continue to deliver on its mandate, and I am excited that these residents will soon move into their new homes. Improving the lives of vulnerable communities is our top priority and a critical part of the response to the pandemic.

18 May 2020 Media Release: Update from the Garden Route District Business, Economic and Tourism Sector:  business as “unusual’ and business continuity

Media Release: Update from the Garden Route District Business, Economic and Tourism Sector:  business as “unusual’ and business continuity

For immediate release
18 May 2020

Update from the Garden Route District Business, Economic and Tourism Sector:  business as “unusual’ and business continuity

In anticipation of the need for rapid action to recover the regional economy from the COVID-19 crisis, the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) established the Business, Economic and Tourism Cluster within the recently activated District Command Centre (DCC).  As part of the work undertaken within the Business, Economic and Tourism Cluster, the GRDM in partnership with the 7 b-Municipalities, Western Cape Government, South Cape Economic Partnership (SCEP), WESGRO, Business Chambers in the region and other important stakeholders, established a sub-cluster called the Business Continuity workstream – one of the three identified workstreams of the broader cluster.

The overall purpose of the Business Continuity workstream is to develop a recovery strategy for the district, addressing issues of business rescue, support and building of business resilience. To this end, work was done to map and analyse the economic sectors in the region according to the risk level and ability to recover. From this key areas that require robust interventions and projects to ensure continuity were identified. A draft Garden Route Business Continuity Strategy document, collated and compiled by the workstream, which is facilitated by SCEP was tabled in early May, and shared with the stakeholders and role players.

This plan was also informed by the results of the COVID-19 business survey for the district, as well as by inputs from sector experts and key stakeholders. The plan proposes solutions which will be implemented in the short, medium, and long term. The main objectives, at present, are to implement solutions and strategies that will ensure that the Garden Route is able to build a stronger, more robust and resilient economy into the future.

Although the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdown affected the whole economy across all sectors, some sectors will be able to ‘ride the wave’ and rebound sooner, but others will most probably be affected over a longer period. This depends on restrictions affecting them locally and internationally. Based on the analysis done on all the sectors as well as recommendations made by the workstream, special emphasis and measures will be further investigated and implemented in the near future into tourism & hospitality; construction services and to a lesser extent, agricultural sectors.

Sector experts and relevant support organisations/development agencies, are currently creating advisory hubs who will create an approach specific to the Garden Route. Lessons from others around the globe will be incorporated into the approach. Business sectors will be incorporated into existing forums in the region to ensure that all voices area heard and continuous support and programmes are inclusive.

Media Release: Update on the coronavirus by Premier Alan Winde

17 May 2020

As of 1pm on 17 May, the Western Cape has 5569 active cases of Covid-19, with a total of 9246 confirmed cases and 3521 recoveries.

Total confirmed COVID-19 cases 9246
Total recoveries 3521
Total deaths 156
Total active cases (currently infected patients) 5569
Total number of tests 90750
Hospital admissions 360 of which 108 are in ICU or high care

Sub Districts Cape Town Metro:

Sub-district Cases Recoveries
Western 996 499
Southern 935 318
Northern 611 228
Tygerberg 1446 576
Eastern 902 376
Klipfontein 1148 409
Mitchells Plain 865 297
Khayelitsha 1225 479
Total 8128 3182

Sub Districts Non-Metro:

District  Sub-district Cases Recoveries
Garden Route Bitou 5 5
Garden Route Knysna 23 14
Garden Route George 23 16
Garden Route Hessequa 8 6
Garden Route Kannaland 1 0
Garden Route Mossel Bay 24 19
Garden Route Oudtshoorn 4 3
Cape Winelands Stellenbosch 60 21
Cape Winelands Drakenstein 114 25
Cape Winelands Breede Valley 46 29
Cape Winelands Langeberg 7 3
Cape Winelands Witzenberg 204 143
Overberg Overstrand 23 15
Overberg Cape Agulhas 2 1
Overberg Swellendam 10 2
Overberg Theewaterskloof 17 2
West Coast Bergrivier 16 1
​West Coast ​Cederberg ​1 ​0
West Coast Matzikama 2 0
West Coast Saldanha Bay Municipality 12 2
West Coast Swartland 29 9
       

Unallocated: 487 (23 recovered)

Additional data can be accessed on the dashboard at www.westerncape.gov.za/coronavirus

The Western Cape has recorded an additional nine COVID-19 deaths-bringing the total number of deaths from the virus in the province to 156. We send our condolences to the family and the loved ones of the deceased at this time.

Recoveries:

We are pleased to report that over 3500 people in the province have recovered from COVID-19 infections. The rate of recovery in Witzenberg now stands at 70% of all cases, and in the Western region, half of all recorded cases to date have recovered.  These are especially promising numbers as both of these areas are considered hotspots in the province.

The majority of people will only experience mild symptoms and 90% of patients will not need to be hospitalised.  While many will recover without complications, we must not underestimate the impact of the COVID-19 virus, especially on the elderly and those with underlying medical conditions. The infection curve in the Western Cape is moving faster, and we are seeing higher rates of community transmission.

Currently, the Western Cape death rate stands at 1.68% of the total caseload. This is in line with international norms.

Our data also shows us that the overwhelming majority of COVID-19 positive people who have died in the province have had one or more comorbidities.  It is therefore imperative that vulnerable residents take extra precautions- by staying home as much as possible to reduce the risk of infection, and by strictly abiding to the golden rules- including frequent hand washing and other hygiene measures, keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from any other person and by wearing a clean, cloth mask when leaving the house.

We can all help to protect the vulnerable by sticking to these same golden rules. Those residents who live with a member of the family who may be vulnerable, must be vigilant to ensure that they do not put their loved ones at additional risk.

Our hotspot plan is systematically addressing infections in nine geographic locations in the province, using the skills, data and experience available across government departments. We are working with the other spheres of government, law enforcement, NGOs and faith based organisations, however, we cannot do this work alone. It requires every one of us to step up and take responsibility to ensure that we are actively doing everything we can to protect ourselves and our loved ones. This is how we will stop the spread.

MORE THAN 1300 TO BENEFIT FROM PROVINCIAL HOUSING PROJECTS WITHIN THE NEXT MONTH

17 May 2020

Within the next month, 1371 beneficiaries, will across the Western Cape move into their new homes. These houses which are ready to be handed over are in various municipal district areas, including the Cape Winelands, Overberg, Garden Route, West Coast, and Cape Metro.

This is an exciting period for all of us in the Human Settlements sector, particularly since contractors have been allowed to return to site, which makes these handovers possible. We are looking forward to sharing this exciting life changing experience with our beneficiaries.

Due to Alert level five/lockdown, houses could not be handed over to beneficiaries sooner. With the return of contractors, we’ve been able to consolidate the potential handovers. In Forest Village alone, which is in the Cape Metro, 267 houses will be handed over. We’ve also just learned that of the 229 housing opportunities that was available in Ceres, which is in the Witzenberg municipality, 160 was handed over just before the lockdown.

I am particularly looking forward to visiting this municipal area to hand over the remainder of the houses. Outside the Cape Metro, Witzenberg has the second highest infection rate in the province, currently sitting at 195. With residents from immediate areas, such as Nduli, Belle Vista, Op die Berg, Prince Alfred’s Hamlet, Tulbagh, Slanghoek and Ceres-town, all set to benefit, we know it will drastically improve the lives of these beneficiaries and their families.

As our continued focus is to improve the lives of the most vulnerable in communities, which includes the elderly, disabled, backyard dwellers, child-headed households and those longest on the housing waiting list, we further know these handovers across the province, will place our beneficiaries in a stronger to help fight against COVID-19.

This is so, as their immediate occupancy will assist in maintaining social distancing, while strengthening the practice of effective and good hygiene.

As the Western Cape Government, we remain committed to accelerating human settlement delivery, while promoting social inclusion through the development of integrated, resilient, safe and sustainable human settlements in an open opportunity society.

Media Enquiries:

Marcellino Martin

Spokesperson for Minister Tertuis Simmers

Marcellino.martin@westerncape.gov.za / 021 483 3397 (o) / 082 721 3362 (m)

or

Mr. Nathan Adriaanse

Director: Communication and Stakeholder Relations

Tel: 021 483-2868 / Cell: 083 263 1720

Media Release: Update on the coronavirus by Premier Alan Winde

16 May 2020

As of 1pm on 16 May, the Western Cape has 5263 active cases of Covid-19, with a total of 8507 confirmed cases and 3097   recoveries.

Total confirmed COVID-19 cases 8507
Total recoveries 3097
Total deaths 147
Total active cases (currently infected patients) 5263
Total number of tests 86250
Hospital admissions 360 of which 108 are in ICU or high care

Sub Districts Cape Town Metro:

Sub-district Cases Recoveries
Western 945 464
Southern 856 300
Northern 558 183
Tygerberg 1340 495
Eastern 840 312
Klipfontein 1020 352
Mitchells Plain 784 268
Khayelitsha 1113 398
Total 7456 2772

Sub Districts Non-Metro:

District  Sub-district Cases Recoveries
Garden Route Bitou 5 5
Garden Route Knysna 22 14
Garden Route George 19 15
Garden Route Hessequa 8 6
Garden Route Mossel Bay 22 18
Garden Route Oudtshoorn 4 3
Cape Winelands Stellenbosch 54 20
Cape Winelands Drakenstein 95 24
Cape Winelands Breede Valley 44 28
Cape Winelands Langeberg 7 3
Cape Winelands Witzenberg 195 139
Overberg Overstrand 19 14
Overberg Cape Agulhas 2 0
Overberg Swellendam 9 1
Overberg Theewaterskloof 15 2
West Coast Bergrivier 16 1
​West Coast ​Cederberg ​1 ​1
West Coast Matzikama 2 0
West Coast Saldanha Bay Municipality 12 2
West Coast Swartland 26 9
       

Unallocated: 474 (21 recovered)

Cases previously assigned to Witzenberg (1 case) and Mossel Bay (1 case) have been reallocated to other sub-districts due to updates in address data.

Additional data can be accessed on the dashboard at www.westerncape.gov.za/coronavirus

The Western Cape has recorded an additional ten COVID-19 deaths-bringing the total number of deaths from the virus in the province to 147. We send our condolences to the family and the loved ones of the deceased at this time.

Today’s statistics show a considerable jump in new infections over the past 24 hours. There are a number of reasons for this large jump: as we have indicated before, the curve of the virus is moving faster in the Western Cape as a result of entrenched community transmission in some of the Western Cape’s hotspot areas. The Western Cape has also seen a considerable increase in the number of tests conducted in the past 24 hours (6150 additional tests), and backlogs in the processing of tests at the National Health Laboratory Services result in batches of results being released simultaneously.

President’s Coordinating Council:

Today, I attended a virtual meeting of the President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Coordinating Council. This meeting comprises Ministers, the Premiers of all nine provinces, as well as representatives from the South African Local Government Association.

The focus of the discussion was around the response to COVID-19 across the provinces, and the move towards alert level 3 of the lockdown. We received a number of presentations including one from the National Department of Health.

The Western Cape presented its hotspot strategy to the group, as the provincial response to the number of infections in nine geographical areas. These areas- in each of the City of Cape Town’s eight sub-districts, and in Witzenberg account for a large proportion of the Western Cape’s infections. Using the data and evidence available to us, we will be able to specifically target these areas with responses from across government departments.

All of the information presented will  be taken into the National Command Council Meeting to be held tomorrow, where further deliberations will take place.

Media Release: Update on the coronavirus by Premier Alan Winde 15

May 2020

As of 1pm on 15 May, the Western Cape has 4592 active cases of Covid-19, with a total of 7586 confirmed cases and 2857  recoveries.

Total confirmed COVID-19 cases 7586
Total recoveries 2857
Total deaths 137
Total active cases (currently infected patients) 4592
Total number of tests 80 100
Hospital admissions 345 of which 123 are in ICU or high care

Sub Districts Cape Town Metro:

Sub-district Cases Recoveries
Western 895 446
Southern 731 285
Northern 497 170
Tygerberg 1306 423
Eastern 791 280
Klipfontein 915 320
Mitchells Plain 760 248
Khayelitsha 1030 373
Total 6925 2545

Sub Districts Non-Metro:

District  Sub-district Cases Recoveries
Garden Route Bitou 5 5
Garden Route Knysna 19 14
Garden Route George 19 15
Garden Route Hessequa 8 6
Garden Route Mossel Bay 23 18
Garden Route Oudtshoorn 4 3
Cape Winelands Stellenbosch 51 20
Cape Winelands Drakenstein 71 20
Cape Winelands Breede Valley 43 27
Cape Winelands Langeberg 5 3
Cape Winelands Witzenberg 196 138
Overberg Overstrand 16 14
Overberg Cape Agulhas 2 0
Overberg Swellendam 9 0
Overberg Theewaterskloof 11 1
West Coast Bergrivier 16 1
West Coast Matzikama 1 0
West Coast Saldanha Bay Municipality 11 2
West Coast Swartland 24 6
       

Unallocated: 127 (19 recovered)

The Western Cape has recorded an additional eight COVID-19 deaths-bringing the total number of deaths from the virus in the province to 137 . We extend our condolences to their loved ones at this time.

Additional data can be accessed on the dashboard at www.westerncape.gov.za/coronavirus

Today marks the 50th day since lockdown was implemented in South Africa and I would like to thank all the residents of the Western Cape who have played their part in helping to ensure that the Western Cape has had the time to prepare the healthcare system.

We have used that time to ramp up community screening and testing- having now screened over 447 000 people in the province based on our active case finding targeted approach, and tested over 11 600 of these. Our total testing numbers have now also topped 80 000 in the province.

We have built and opened testing and triage centres and total of 18 of these will be operational at hospitals across the province.

Work to convert the CTICC into an 850 bed hospital continues apace, and we have put out a call, and received over 1000 offers to volunteer from medical professionals in the province. We are finalising the leases on three more facilities to be used as temporary hospitals, in the province.

We have developed systems to track how much PPE is available in the Western Cape Government health system, and have several more orders in the pipeline.

We have identified and procured quarantine and isolation facilities in the province, and are working to identify more of these spaces so that we can ensure that those who are not able to self isolate or quarantine at home, can do so safely in these facilities.

We have also devised our hotspot strategies for Witzenberg and for the City of Cape Town, which provide a whole of government response to fighting infections in these areas. These strategies will provide an evidence-led and data-driven response across government departments to ensure that we respond effectively, from every angle to reduce both the spread of the virus as well as its impact on communities.

We believe that in conjunction with targeted hotspot strategy for specific geographical areas, the province can and should, move to alert level 3. It is imperative that we as a country and a province, now start to adapt to the “new normal”  and find the balance between protecting our people from COVID-19, while ensuring that they are able to work, and put food on the table for themselves and their families. The hardlock down was necessary but it has also resulted in severe economic hardship for many, and an unprecedented humanitarian disaster. It is the poor and vulnerable in our society who will bear the brunt. We need to save lives now and in the future too.

This is what we will tell President Cyril Ramaphosa and Health Minsiter, Dr Zweli Mkhize during the consultation process.

I would also like to once again thank all of the hard working front line staff who have worked through out this period including those in retail, agriculture, law enforcement and municipal services. I especially want to recognise our health care workers, and those across government departments, who have ensured that we have been able to care for those who are ill, while simultaneously preparing for the peak of this virus.