Right after South Africa's decision to halt AstraZeneca's vaccine roll-out, several western governments have rushed to offer support to the halted vaccination. Health Minister of France took the first jab of the AstraZeneca vaccine in Paris.

Countries voice support over AstraZeneca efficacy

South Africa hopes to vaccinate 40 million people, or two-thirds of the population, to achieve some level of herd immunity but has yet to administer a single shot.

South Africa puts AstraZeneca vaccinations on hold over variant data

South Africa has temporarily halted the rollout of AstraZeneca Coronavirus vaccine after a study shows that the jab provided minimal protection against COVID-19 variant found in the country.

South Africa received over a million AstraZeneca shots

South Africa has halted the roll-out of AstraZeneca vaccine in fight against COVID-19 on a temporary basis, as the study showed minimal protection against Coronavirus.

South Africa halts the roll-out of AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine on temporarily basis

The outgoing chairperson of the African Union, President Cyril Ramaphosa, on Saturday conducted a symbolic handover of the AU flag and gave to President Felix Antoine Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo and incoming chairperson of the AU.

The handover was done at the virtual 34th Ordinary Session of the assembly of heads of state and government on Saturday.&nbsp;

The African Union theme for 2021 will be “Arts, Culture and Heritage: Levers for Building the Africa We Want,” a statement from the presidency said.&nbsp;

During South Africa’s tenure as the chair, the African Union achieved key priorities as outlined in its programme for 2020. This included the historic advent -- on January 1, 2021 -- of free trade within the African Continental Free Trade Area, the statement said.

Under the leadership of President Ramaphosa and resolute support of the Bureau of the Heads of State and Government of the AU and the AU Secretariat, the following initiatives were undertaken to address the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic, the statement read.

- The establishment of the AU COVID-19 response fund;

- The establishment of the Africa Task Force for Coronavirus (AFTCOR);

- The Partnership to Accelerate COVID-19 Testing in Africa (PACT);

- The Consortium for COVID-19 Clinical Vaccine Trials (CONCVACT);

- The appointment of special envoys to mobilise the international support for the continental fight against COVID-19;

- The establishment of the African Medical Supplies Platform (AMSP): a platform developed to assist the AU member states to tackle issues on the supply side of continent’s response to COVID-19 and access to medical supplies and equipment;

- The initiative of the chair of the AU to engage international partners and financial institutions such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank, the European Union (EU), G20 member states and others to support the issue of debt relief for African countries whose economies have been devastated by the pandemic;&nbsp;

- The development of the vaccine strategy for the continent which was endorsed by the AU Bureau of Assembly on August 20, 2020;&nbsp;

- President Ramaphosa’s establishment of the COVID-19 African Vaccine Acquisition Task Team (AVATT), in support of Africa Vaccine Strategy. The Task Team was mandated to secure the necessary resources for achieving Africa’s COVID-19 vaccine strategy which targets vaccinating a minimum of 60 per cent of Africa’s population and to accelerate the arrangements of financing for the procurement of COVID-19 vaccines for the African continent;&nbsp;

The 34th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly is expected to consider some of the continent’s pertinent issues related to the selection of the senior leadership of the African Union Commission.

The outgoing chairperson of the African Union, President Cyril Ramaphosa, on Saturday conducted a symbolic handover of the AU flag and gave to President Felix Antoine Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo and incoming chairperson of the AU.

The outgoing chairperson of the African Union, President Cyril Ramaphosa, on Saturday conducted a symbolic handover of the AU flag and gave to President Felix Antoine Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo and incoming chairperson of the AU. The handover was done at the virtual 34th Ordinary Session of the assembly of heads of state and government on Saturday. The African Union theme for 2021 will be “Arts, Culture and Heritage: Levers for Building the Africa We Want,” a statement from the presidency said. During South Africa’s tenure as the chair, the African Union achieved key priorities as outlined in its programme for 2020. This included the historic advent -- on January 1, 2021 -- of free trade within the African Continental Free Trade Area, the statement said. Under the leadership of President Ramaphosa and resolute support of the Bureau of the Heads of State and Government of the AU and the AU Secretariat, the following initiatives were undertaken to address the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic, the statement read. - The establishment of the AU COVID-19 response fund; - The establishment of the Africa Task Force for Coronavirus (AFTCOR); - The Partnership to Accelerate COVID-19 Testing in Africa (PACT); - The Consortium for COVID-19 Clinical Vaccine Trials (CONCVACT); - The appointment of special envoys to mobilise the international support for the continental fight against COVID-19; - The establishment of the African Medical Supplies Platform (AMSP): a platform developed to assist the AU member states to tackle issues on the supply side of continent’s response to COVID-19 and access to medical supplies and equipment; - The initiative of the chair of the AU to engage international partners and financial institutions such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank, the European Union (EU), G20 member states and others to support the issue of debt relief for African countries whose economies have been devastated by the pandemic; - The development of the vaccine strategy for the continent which was endorsed by the AU Bureau of Assembly on August 20, 2020; - President Ramaphosa’s establishment of the COVID-19 African Vaccine Acquisition Task Team (AVATT), in support of Africa Vaccine Strategy. The Task Team was mandated to secure the necessary resources for achieving Africa’s COVID-19 vaccine strategy which targets vaccinating a minimum of 60 per cent of Africa’s population and to accelerate the arrangements of financing for the procurement of COVID-19 vaccines for the African continent; The 34th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly is expected to consider some of the continent’s pertinent issues related to the selection of the senior leadership of the African Union Commission.

South Africa conducts symbolic handover of chairmanship of the African Union

South Africans have taken to social media to vent their extreme frustration over the skyrocketing prices of ginger. The Competition Commission of South Africa has said that it is probing as to what actually led to this sharp price increase.

South Africa: COVID-19 pandemic forces ginger prices to soar

The World Trade Organization (WTO) will be again taking up joint India-South Africa proposal for wavier for Intellectual Property Right (IPR) on COVID-19 vaccine patent. The proposal will be considered in the meeting of the council which is to be held on February 23.

This matter was taken up on Thursday at a meeting of the body, but the attendees failed to reach an outcome, amid stiff opposition by developed countries. WTO so far has not ruled anything on the proposal that will make access to the vaccines easier.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pfizer-withdraws-emergency-use-authorisation-application-in-india-361527" hreflang="en">Pfizer withdraws Emergency Use Authorisation application in India</a>

Countries such as the US and a few other European countries&nbsp;are opposed to the proposal as they see the free licence regime as a loss that can permanently alter the IP landscape. However, Indian-South African proposal comes even as top focus, globally, has been easy access for coronavirus&nbsp;vaccines.

Europe itself is embroiled in a tiff with the drug manufacturer, AstraZeneca, for supplies. In fact, 14 European parliamentarians have written a strongly worded letter to the EU leaders, calling for support for India-South Africa proposal. This proposal is seen as a "nuclear option" and in fact,&nbsp;the Italian Parliament had backed the proposal as far as December.&nbsp;

The World Trade Organization (WTO) will be again taking up joint India-South Africa proposal for wavier for Intellectual Property Right (IPR) on COVID-19 vaccine patent.

The World Trade Organization (WTO) will be again taking up joint India-South Africa proposal for wavier for Intellectual Property Right (IPR) on COVID-19 vaccine patent. The proposal will be considered in the meeting of the council which is to be held on February 23. This matter was taken up on Thursday at a meeting of the body, but the attendees failed to reach an outcome, amid stiff opposition by developed countries. WTO so far has not ruled anything on the proposal that will make access to the vaccines easier. Also read| Pfizer withdraws Emergency Use Authorisation application in India Countries such as the US and a few other European countries are opposed to the proposal as they see the free licence regime as a loss that can permanently alter the IP landscape. However, Indian-South African proposal comes even as top focus, globally, has been easy access for coronavirus vaccines. Europe itself is embroiled in a tiff with the drug manufacturer, AstraZeneca, for supplies. In fact, 14 European parliamentarians have written a strongly worded letter to the EU leaders, calling for support for India-South Africa proposal. This proposal is seen as a "nuclear option" and in fact, the Italian Parliament had backed the proposal as far as December.

WTO to take up India-SAfrica proposal for waiver on IP rights for COVID vaccines on Feb 23

European Union Parliamentarians have strongly backed India and South Africa's joint proposal at the World Trade Organization for a waiver on intellectual property rights for COVID-19 vaccine patents.

EU parliamentarians back India-South Africa push for COVID-19 vaccine patents ban

South Africa welcomed its first batch of the Oxford University-AstraZeneca vaccine from the Serum Institute of India (SII) on Monday. President Cyril Ramaphosa, Deputy Vice President David Mabuza, Health Minister Zweli Mkhize, Indian High Commissioner to South Africa, Jaideep Sarkar received the first consignment of one million jabs of the vaccine.

South Africa welcomes its first batch of coronavirus vaccine from India

South Africa is putting forward a proposal to nominate the contingent of Cuban Doctors brought to the country to help fight Covid-19 for the Nobel Peace Prize.&nbsp;

While addressing the nation on Monday, President Cyril Ramaphosa said he wishes to recognize the selfless and unwavering assistance of the government and people of Cuba.

“In recognition of this effort, the South African Cabinet has approved a proposal to nominate the Henry Reeve International Contingent of Doctors Specialised in Disaster Situations and Serious Epidemics – or as they commonly are known, the Cuban Medical Brigade – for the 2021 Nobel Peace Prize,” President said.&nbsp;

True to its history, a small island nation has demonstrated solidarity with the hardest-hit countries and sent more than 3,700 Cubans throughout the world to assist in the fight against COVID-19, Ramaphosa said.&nbsp;

In Africa alone, the Brigade had treated more than 38,000 people by the end of November 2020. They are currently still active in many countries, including here in South Africa, Ramaphosa added.&nbsp;

“We extend our sincerest gratitude to the people of Cuba for this great demonstration of solidarity and humanity,” Ramaphosa said.&nbsp;

In 2020, South Africa welcomed 217 Cuban Doctors, health technologists and epidemiologist.

The South African government spent R239 million on the program to boost SA’s covid plan.

Relations between Cuba and South Africa are significant. Both the countries were forged in the common struggle against apartheid and colonialism on the African continent.

South Africa is putting forward a proposal to nominate the contingent of Cuban Doctors brought to the country to help fight Covid-19 for the Nobel Peace Prize. While addressing the nation on Monday, President Cyril Ramaphosa said he wishes to recognize the selfless and unwavering assistance of the government and people of Cuba.

South Africa is putting forward a proposal to nominate the contingent of Cuban Doctors brought to the country to help fight Covid-19 for the Nobel Peace Prize. While addressing the nation on Monday, President Cyril Ramaphosa said he wishes to recognize the selfless and unwavering assistance of the government and people of Cuba. “In recognition of this effort, the South African Cabinet has approved a proposal to nominate the Henry Reeve International Contingent of Doctors Specialised in Disaster Situations and Serious Epidemics – or as they commonly are known, the Cuban Medical Brigade – for the 2021 Nobel Peace Prize,” President said. True to its history, a small island nation has demonstrated solidarity with the hardest-hit countries and sent more than 3,700 Cubans throughout the world to assist in the fight against COVID-19, Ramaphosa said. In Africa alone, the Brigade had treated more than 38,000 people by the end of November 2020. They are currently still active in many countries, including here in South Africa, Ramaphosa added. “We extend our sincerest gratitude to the people of Cuba for this great demonstration of solidarity and humanity,” Ramaphosa said. In 2020, South Africa welcomed 217 Cuban Doctors, health technologists and epidemiologist. The South African government spent R239 million on the program to boost SA’s covid plan. Relations between Cuba and South Africa are significant. Both the countries were forged in the common struggle against apartheid and colonialism on the African continent.

South Africa to nominate Cuban doctors for Nobel Peace Prize for helping in the fight against Covid-19 

South Africa welcomed its first batch of the Oxford University-AstraZeneca vaccine from the Serum Institute of India (SII) on Monday.

President Cyril Ramaphosa, Deputy Vice President David Mabuza, Health Minister Zweli Mkhize, Indian High Commissioner to South Africa, Jaideep Sarkar received the first consignment of one million jabs of the vaccine.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sa-president-calls-out-rich-countries-for-hoarding-vaccines-359471" hreflang="en">SA President calls out rich countries for hoarding vaccines</a>

The arrival of the first consignment marks the start of the vaccine rollout which President Ramaphosa describes as the largest and most complex logistical vaccine undertaking in South Africa’s history.&nbsp;

The scale of delivery is unprecedented in terms of the number of people who have to be reached within a short space of time, Ramaphosa said.

The first phase of this rollout programme will prioritise around 1.2 million frontline health workers.&nbsp;

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-schools-to-stay-closed-amid-surge-in-coronavirus-cases-358541" hreflang="en">South Africa: Schools to stay closed amid surge in coronavirus cases</a>

This batch of vaccine will go through technical processes, including quality assurance and stock reconciliation. It will take over 10 to 14 days before distributing to provinces, Zweli Mkhize, Minister, Department of Health previously said.

President Ramaphosa is set to address the nation tonight on developments in relation to the country’s response to the coronavirus pandemic.

As on Sunday, the country registered 1.45 million cases and 44,164 deaths.&nbsp;

South Africa welcomed its first batch of the Oxford University-AstraZeneca vaccine from the Serum Institute of India (SII) on Monday. President Cyril Ramaphosa, Deputy Vice President David Mabuza, Health Minister Zweli Mkhize, Indian High Commissioner to South Africa, Jaideep Sarkar received the first consignment of one million jabs of the vaccine. Also read| SA President calls out rich countries for hoarding vaccines The arrival of the first consignment marks the start of the vaccine rollout which President Ramaphosa describes as the largest and most complex logistical vaccine undertaking in South Africa’s history. The scale of delivery is unprecedented in terms of the number of people who have to be reached within a short space of time, Ramaphosa said. The first phase of this rollout programme will prioritise around 1.2 million frontline health workers. Also read| South Africa: Schools to stay closed amid surge in coronavirus cases This batch of vaccine will go through technical processes, including quality assurance and stock reconciliation. It will take over 10 to 14 days before distributing to provinces, Zweli Mkhize, Minister, Department of Health previously said. President Ramaphosa is set to address the nation tonight on developments in relation to the country’s response to the coronavirus pandemic. As on Sunday, the country registered 1.45 million cases and 44,164 deaths.

South Africa skipper Quinton de Kock urged his team's batsmen to be mentally stronger if they stand a chance against Pakistan in the second and final Test at Rawalpindi on Thursday. &nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-batting-coach-feels-pant-will-have-extremely-important-role-in-future-360041">Indian batting coach feels Pant will have 'important role' in future</a>

Pakistan dominated the Proteas with both bat and bowl in the first Test at Karachi as they beat the visitors by 7 wickets on Friday. South African batsmen could not stand a chance against the spin duo of Yasir Shah and debutant Nauman Ali as they crumbled from 175 for one to 245 all out in the second innings in Karachi setting an easy target for the hosts.

"We were never really ahead in the game, 220 in the first innings on that wicket is not good enough, especially when you opt to bat first. We let ourselves down," De Kock told reporters.

"The first innings we gave them our wickets, second innings there were one or two good nuts. We have to go back (to training), prepare and come back mentally stronger."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/your-profile-picture-vs-the-full-picture-icc-trolls-pakistan-cricketer-hasan-ali-359935" hreflang="en">'Your profile picture vs the full picture': ICC trolls Pakistan cricketer Hasan Ali</a>

South Africa have passed 300 just three times in their last 25 innings on the sub-continent, and more recently have been prone to spectacular collapses.

"If we knew how to fix them (the collapses) we wouldn’t be doing them in the first place, but we have spoken about it and are trying to find a way to stop it," De Kock added.

"In our second innings (of this test) we saw the way Aiden (Markram) and Rassie (Van der Dussen) went about it, they took their time and kept the ball on the ground, soaked up the pressure and scored where they could.

"Our record in the sub-continent is not the greatest, but we have won a couple of series. It is just a matter of finding a way to win."

South Africa skipper Quinton de Kock urged his team's batsmen to be mentally stronger if they stand a chance against Pakistan in the second and final Test at Rawalpindi on Thursday.

South Africa skipper Quinton de Kock urged his team's batsmen to be mentally stronger if they stand a chance against Pakistan in the second and final Test at Rawalpindi on Thursday. ALSO READ: Indian batting coach feels Pant will have 'important role' in future Pakistan dominated the Proteas with both bat and bowl in the first Test at Karachi as they beat the visitors by 7 wickets on Friday. South African batsmen could not stand a chance against the spin duo of Yasir Shah and debutant Nauman Ali as they crumbled from 175 for one to 245 all out in the second innings in Karachi setting an easy target for the hosts. "We were never really ahead in the game, 220 in the first innings on that wicket is not good enough, especially when you opt to bat first. We let ourselves down," De Kock told reporters. "The first innings we gave them our wickets, second innings there were one or two good nuts. We have to go back (to training), prepare and come back mentally stronger." ALSO READ: 'Your profile picture vs the full picture': ICC trolls Pakistan cricketer Hasan Ali South Africa have passed 300 just three times in their last 25 innings on the sub-continent, and more recently have been prone to spectacular collapses. "If we knew how to fix them (the collapses) we wouldn’t be doing them in the first place, but we have spoken about it and are trying to find a way to stop it," De Kock added. "In our second innings (of this test) we saw the way Aiden (Markram) and Rassie (Van der Dussen) went about it, they took their time and kept the ball on the ground, soaked up the pressure and scored where they could. "Our record in the sub-continent is not the greatest, but we have won a couple of series. It is just a matter of finding a way to win."

'We let ourselves down': De Kock urges Proteas batsmen to show more steel

The South African military has amended its dress policy to allow Muslim women to wear headscarves as part of their uniform, an army spokesperson said Thursday.

In January last year, a military court dropped charges against an officer who had been indicted for wearing a hijab under her military beret.

Major Fatima Isaacs had been criminally charged in June 2018 with wilful defiance and failing to obey lawful instructions after her superior asked her to remove her headscarf when in uniform.

A military court at the Castle of Good Hope near Cape Town withdrew all charges in January 2020, allowing Isaacs to exceptionally wear a tight black headwrap on duty as long as it did not cover her ears.

But the military did not amend its dress policy, prompting Isaacs to mount a challenge in South Africa's equality court over regulations restricting religious wear.

The South African Defence Force (SANDF) eventually agreed to amend its policy this week and allow all Muslim women to cover their heads while on duty.

"The SANDF dress regulation was updated to allow the wearing of headscarves by Muslim (women) according to stipulations in the dress regulations," spokesman Mafi Mgobozi told AFP via WhatsApp on Thursday.

The South Africa-based Legal Resources Centre, which represented Isaacs, welcomed the decision via Twitter on Wednesday and said it was withdrawing the equality court case.

The South African military has amended its dress policy to allow Muslim women to wear headscarves as part of their uniform, an army spokesperson said Thursday. In January last year, a military court dropped charges against an officer who had been indicted for wearing a hijab under her military beret.

The South African military has amended its dress policy to allow Muslim women to wear headscarves as part of their uniform, an army spokesperson said Thursday. In January last year, a military court dropped charges against an officer who had been indicted for wearing a hijab under her military beret. Major Fatima Isaacs had been criminally charged in June 2018 with wilful defiance and failing to obey lawful instructions after her superior asked her to remove her headscarf when in uniform. A military court at the Castle of Good Hope near Cape Town withdrew all charges in January 2020, allowing Isaacs to exceptionally wear a tight black headwrap on duty as long as it did not cover her ears. But the military did not amend its dress policy, prompting Isaacs to mount a challenge in South Africa's equality court over regulations restricting religious wear. The South African Defence Force (SANDF) eventually agreed to amend its policy this week and allow all Muslim women to cover their heads while on duty. "The SANDF dress regulation was updated to allow the wearing of headscarves by Muslim (women) according to stipulations in the dress regulations," spokesman Mafi Mgobozi told AFP via WhatsApp on Thursday. The South Africa-based Legal Resources Centre, which represented Isaacs, welcomed the decision via Twitter on Wednesday and said it was withdrawing the equality court case.

South Africa army reviews uniform policy, allows women to wear hijab

South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa called on rich countries for hoarding <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine?page=1">COVID-19 vaccine</a> doses, to the exclusion of other countries.

“Rich countries in the world are holding on to these vaccines and we are saying release the excess vaccines that you’ve ordered and hoarded,” Ramaphosa said.

Ramaphosa, who is also the Chairperson of the African Union (AU) was speaking at the World Economic Forum digital Davos summit on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-chief-says-companies-must-deliver-coronavirus-vaccines-germany-agrees-359459" hreflang="en">EU chief says companies 'must deliver' coronavirus vaccines; Germany agrees</a>

“We are concerned about vaccine nationalism. The rich countries of the world went out and acquired large doses of vaccines from developers and manufacturers of these vaccines. Some countries have even gone beyond and acquired up to four times what their population needs,” the President said.&nbsp;

“There is just no need for a country which perhaps has about 40 million people goes and acquires 120 million doses of vaccines or even 160 million, and yet the world needs access to these vaccines”, he added.&nbsp;

Ramaphosa also stressed that the world must act together in combating coronavirus.&nbsp;

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-schools-to-stay-closed-amid-surge-in-coronavirus-cases-358541" hreflang="en">South Africa: Schools to stay closed amid surge in coronavirus cases</a>

“We want vaccines as quickly as other countries that have already started. We are all not safe if some countries are vaccinating their people and other countries are not,” he explained.&nbsp;

So far the COVID-19 African Vaccine Acquistion Task Team (for African Union) has secured 260 million doses and a further 700 million are expected from Covax, Ramaphosa said.&nbsp;

South Africa is set to receive one million doses from the Serum Institute of India by the end of the month and another 500,000 for early next month. The country is targeting vaccinating 40 million South Africans by the end of the year.&nbsp;

South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa called on rich countries for hoarding COVID-19 vaccine doses, to the exclusion of other countries. “Rich countries in the world are holding on to these vaccines and we are saying release the excess vaccines that you’ve ordered and hoarded,” Ramaphosa said.

South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa called on rich countries for hoarding COVID-19 vaccine doses, to the exclusion of other countries. “Rich countries in the world are holding on to these vaccines and we are saying release the excess vaccines that you’ve ordered and hoarded,” Ramaphosa said. Ramaphosa, who is also the Chairperson of the African Union (AU) was speaking at the World Economic Forum digital Davos summit on Tuesday. Also read| EU chief says companies 'must deliver' coronavirus vaccines; Germany agrees “We are concerned about vaccine nationalism. The rich countries of the world went out and acquired large doses of vaccines from developers and manufacturers of these vaccines. Some countries have even gone beyond and acquired up to four times what their population needs,” the President said. “There is just no need for a country which perhaps has about 40 million people goes and acquires 120 million doses of vaccines or even 160 million, and yet the world needs access to these vaccines”, he added. Ramaphosa also stressed that the world must act together in combating coronavirus. Also read| South Africa: Schools to stay closed amid surge in coronavirus cases “We want vaccines as quickly as other countries that have already started. We are all not safe if some countries are vaccinating their people and other countries are not,” he explained. So far the COVID-19 African Vaccine Acquistion Task Team (for African Union) has secured 260 million doses and a further 700 million are expected from Covax, Ramaphosa said. South Africa is set to receive one million doses from the Serum Institute of India by the end of the month and another 500,000 for early next month. The country is targeting vaccinating 40 million South Africans by the end of the year.

SA President calls out rich countries for hoarding vaccines

President Joe Biden will impose a ban on most non-U.S. citizens entering the country who have recently been in South Africa starting Saturday in a bid to contain the spread of a new variant of COVID-19.

Biden administration to reinstate COVID travel rules, imposes ban on South Africa

The South African government has postponed the reopening of schools across the country as it battles the second wave of Coronavirus infection.

South Africa's education department postpones reopening of schools

A South African hospital group is in the firing line after it emerged that a cardiologist dubbed "Dr Death", who headed an apartheid-era chemical weapons programme, practises in its clinics.

Doctor Wouter Basson, 70, once led a secret programme known as "Project Coast", set up under the apartheid regime during the 1980s to produce chemical weapons to use against government enemies.

Dubbed "Dr Death" by South African media, Basson is accused of supplying drugs for cross-border kidnappings and providing cyanide suicide capsules for specialised military units fighting anti-apartheid activists.

It is also alleged that Project Coast was researching birth control methods to reduce South Africa's black population, directly oppressed by white minority rule until 1994.

Verne Harris, head of research at the Nelson Mandela Foundation, said on Saturday that the Basson saga highlighted South Africa's failure to follow through on the post-Apartheid Truth and Reconciliation Commission's work by prosecuting those who did not receive amnesties.

"Arguably, so much of the rage that we see in our society today, has its roots in the pain that people have carried from the apartheid era into the democratic era," Harris told AFP.&nbsp;

- Outrage -

Many South Africans were outraged after Basson's name was found on Wednesday among a list of specialists working at two private hospitals run by the Mediclinic Southern Africa group, which operates in Namibia and South Africa.

The company responded by defending its affiliation with Basson on Twitter, stirring a social media storm.

Mediclinic said it could not prohibit doctors who are registered to practise by the Health Professions Council of South Africa.

"How dare they approve a medical licence to practise for a known murderer!" blasted one Twitter user.

"Dr Death ruined our communities for generations to come," wrote another, who refers to herself as "A Black Woman" on social media.

Several online messages likened the situation to employing Nazi officers in modern-day Germany.

"What reaction would people have if (Josef) Mengele were found practising medicine in a clinic in Germany," Tweeted one South African resident, referring to a doctor who performed medical experiments in concentration camps during the Second World War.

- Past pain is present -

The opposition Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party condemned Basson's licence to practise as an "abhorrence" and said the doctor "belongs in jail".

"The Dr of Death, after having not served any time in prison for his crimes, showing no remorse for his treacherous acts... must in the least not be allowed to carry the privilege... of practising in the healthcare sector," the EFF said in a statement. &nbsp;

Although the regulator found Basson guilty on four charges of misconduct in 2013, it has so far refused to remove him from the national doctors' roll.

Basson was put on trial in 1999 on 67 charges including murder, fraud and drug trafficking.

But he was fully acquitted in 2002 and returned to practise medicine three years later.

In 2015, students at South Africa's Stellenbosch University called for Basson to be banned from teaching them because of his past.&nbsp;

A South African hospital group is in the firing line after it emerged that a cardiologist dubbed "Dr Death", who headed an apartheid-era chemical weapons programme, practises in its clinics.

A South African hospital group is in the firing line after it emerged that a cardiologist dubbed "Dr Death", who headed an apartheid-era chemical weapons programme, practises in its clinics. Doctor Wouter Basson, 70, once led a secret programme known as "Project Coast", set up under the apartheid regime during the 1980s to produce chemical weapons to use against government enemies. Dubbed "Dr Death" by South African media, Basson is accused of supplying drugs for cross-border kidnappings and providing cyanide suicide capsules for specialised military units fighting anti-apartheid activists. It is also alleged that Project Coast was researching birth control methods to reduce South Africa's black population, directly oppressed by white minority rule until 1994. Verne Harris, head of research at the Nelson Mandela Foundation, said on Saturday that the Basson saga highlighted South Africa's failure to follow through on the post-Apartheid Truth and Reconciliation Commission's work by prosecuting those who did not receive amnesties. "Arguably, so much of the rage that we see in our society today, has its roots in the pain that people have carried from the apartheid era into the democratic era," Harris told AFP. - Outrage - Many South Africans were outraged after Basson's name was found on Wednesday among a list of specialists working at two private hospitals run by the Mediclinic Southern Africa group, which operates in Namibia and South Africa. The company responded by defending its affiliation with Basson on Twitter, stirring a social media storm. Mediclinic said it could not prohibit doctors who are registered to practise by the Health Professions Council of South Africa. "How dare they approve a medical licence to practise for a known murderer!" blasted one Twitter user. "Dr Death ruined our communities for generations to come," wrote another, who refers to herself as "A Black Woman" on social media. Several online messages likened the situation to employing Nazi officers in modern-day Germany. "What reaction would people have if (Josef) Mengele were found practising medicine in a clinic in Germany," Tweeted one South African resident, referring to a doctor who performed medical experiments in concentration camps during the Second World War. - Past pain is present - The opposition Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party condemned Basson's licence to practise as an "abhorrence" and said the doctor "belongs in jail". "The Dr of Death, after having not served any time in prison for his crimes, showing no remorse for his treacherous acts... must in the least not be allowed to carry the privilege... of practising in the healthcare sector," the EFF said in a statement. Although the regulator found Basson guilty on four charges of misconduct in 2013, it has so far refused to remove him from the national doctors' roll. Basson was put on trial in 1999 on 67 charges including murder, fraud and drug trafficking. But he was fully acquitted in 2002 and returned to practise medicine three years later. In 2015, students at South Africa's Stellenbosch University called for Basson to be banned from teaching them because of his past.

Outrage in South Africa that apartheid-era 'Dr Death' still working

The reopening of South African schools for the new academic year has been postponed by two weeks in the wake of rising new covid-19 variant cases.&nbsp;

“All stakeholders were united in supporting a delay in the opening of schools. Given the pressure experienced by the health system in the past weeks due to covid-19, the council of education, ministers in conjunction with NCCC and cabinet has taken a decision to delay the reopening of both public and private schools by two weeks, Deputy Minister of Basic Education, Reginah Mhaule said.&nbsp;

The schools will now be opening on February 15.&nbsp;

The decision to postpone the reopening of schools has caused divisions in the country. While some support the government’s decision, others are visibly upset.&nbsp;

Democratic Alliance (DA), the main opposition party of South Africa said that they do not support the decision made by the government.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-covid-19-mutant-found-in-south-africa-spreads-more-swiftly-351972">New Covid-19 mutant found in South Africa spreads more swiftly</a>

“We strongly believe that the health and safety of learners and teachers should be prioritised, however, we do not believe delaying the start of the academic year will achieve this. We are concerned about the impact that this delay could have on the psychological and academic development of learners,” the party said.

According to UNICEF monitoring, as of 12 January 2021, approximately 825 million learners are currently affected due to school closures due to the pandemic.&nbsp;

It said 23 countries are currently implementing nationwide closures.

Even though experts and scientists are yet to determine if the new variant of SARS-CoV-2 is more transmissible to children, most countries, including South Africa witnessed more younger people getting infected with the new variant.&nbsp;

Earlier strains of coronavirus found it harder to infect children than adults.

An expert, WION, spoke to said postponing of schools is primarily a measure taken by the government to decrease the transmission amongst learners and teachers.&nbsp;

“It’s all about lifestyle, younger people are more likely to go out, socialize, attend super spreader events, so this is why they say younger people are more susceptible to the virus. I would recommend going back to school is an important component of going back to normal life,” Guy Richards, Director of Critical Care at Wits University said.&nbsp;

As on Thursday, the cumulative covid-19 new cases in South Africa stood at 1.38 million and death tolls rose to 39, 501.

The reopening of South African schools for the new academic year has been postponed by two weeks in the wake of rising new covid-19 variant cases. “All stakeholders were united in supporting a delay in the opening of schools.

The reopening of South African schools for the new academic year has been postponed by two weeks in the wake of rising new covid-19 variant cases. “All stakeholders were united in supporting a delay in the opening of schools. Given the pressure experienced by the health system in the past weeks due to covid-19, the council of education, ministers in conjunction with NCCC and cabinet has taken a decision to delay the reopening of both public and private schools by two weeks, Deputy Minister of Basic Education, Reginah Mhaule said. The schools will now be opening on February 15. The decision to postpone the reopening of schools has caused divisions in the country. While some support the government’s decision, others are visibly upset. Democratic Alliance (DA), the main opposition party of South Africa said that they do not support the decision made by the government. Also read| New Covid-19 mutant found in South Africa spreads more swiftly “We strongly believe that the health and safety of learners and teachers should be prioritised, however, we do not believe delaying the start of the academic year will achieve this. We are concerned about the impact that this delay could have on the psychological and academic development of learners,” the party said. According to UNICEF monitoring, as of 12 January 2021, approximately 825 million learners are currently affected due to school closures due to the pandemic. It said 23 countries are currently implementing nationwide closures. Even though experts and scientists are yet to determine if the new variant of SARS-CoV-2 is more transmissible to children, most countries, including South Africa witnessed more younger people getting infected with the new variant. Earlier strains of coronavirus found it harder to infect children than adults. An expert, WION, spoke to said postponing of schools is primarily a measure taken by the government to decrease the transmission amongst learners and teachers. “It’s all about lifestyle, younger people are more likely to go out, socialize, attend super spreader events, so this is why they say younger people are more susceptible to the virus. I would recommend going back to school is an important component of going back to normal life,” Guy Richards, Director of Critical Care at Wits University said. As on Thursday, the cumulative covid-19 new cases in South Africa stood at 1.38 million and death tolls rose to 39, 501.

South Africa: Schools to stay closed amid surge in coronavirus cases

Jackson Mthembu, a minister and presidential advisor who was the public face of South Africa's fight against Covid, has died from the virus, the presidency said Thursday.

"It is with deep sorrow and shock that we announce that minister in the presidency Jackson Mthembu passed away earlier today from Covid-related complications," President Cyril Ramaphosa said in a statement.

"Mthembu was an exemplary leader, an activist and life-long champion of freedom and democracy," he said.

Mthembu, 62, was the senior-most of six South African cabinet members who have contracted Covid-19, and the first to die from the disease.

His death follows that on Wednesday of Zimbabwe's foreign minister, Sibusiso Moyo -- the third minister in South Africa's neighbour to succumb to the microbe.

Mthembu last week announced he had tested positive during a check-up for "abdominal pain" and said plans were underway to test his family members and close associates.

The veteran politician was among a group of parliamentarians who drafted South Africa's liberal constitution at the end of apartheid.&nbsp;

He served as spokesman of the ruling African National Congress (ANC) from 1994 under the country's first democratically-elected president, Nelson Mandela, and continued in that role under his successor Thabo Mbeki.

Mthembu acted as a stern and vocal chief whip of the ANC in parliament during the presidency of Jacob Zuma, who was forced out of office in February 2018 by corruption scandals.&nbsp;

The country's largest opposition party, the Democratic Alliance, paid tribute to Mthembu as "a true South African patriot."

South Africa's second coronavirus wave has battered the country, fuelled by a virus variant believed to be more transmissible than the prevailing strain in the first wave.&nbsp;

The country has registered over 1.3 million cases since the start of the pandemic, of which 38,854 have been fatal. 
&nbsp;

Jackson Mthembu, a minister and presidential advisor who was the public face of South Africa's fight against Covid, has died from the virus, the presidency said Thursday.

Jackson Mthembu, a minister and presidential advisor who was the public face of South Africa's fight against Covid, has died from the virus, the presidency said Thursday. "It is with deep sorrow and shock that we announce that minister in the presidency Jackson Mthembu passed away earlier today from Covid-related complications," President Cyril Ramaphosa said in a statement. "Mthembu was an exemplary leader, an activist and life-long champion of freedom and democracy," he said. Mthembu, 62, was the senior-most of six South African cabinet members who have contracted Covid-19, and the first to die from the disease. His death follows that on Wednesday of Zimbabwe's foreign minister, Sibusiso Moyo -- the third minister in South Africa's neighbour to succumb to the microbe. Mthembu last week announced he had tested positive during a check-up for "abdominal pain" and said plans were underway to test his family members and close associates. The veteran politician was among a group of parliamentarians who drafted South Africa's liberal constitution at the end of apartheid. He served as spokesman of the ruling African National Congress (ANC) from 1994 under the country's first democratically-elected president, Nelson Mandela, and continued in that role under his successor Thabo Mbeki. Mthembu acted as a stern and vocal chief whip of the ANC in parliament during the presidency of Jacob Zuma, who was forced out of office in February 2018 by corruption scandals. The country's largest opposition party, the Democratic Alliance, paid tribute to Mthembu as "a true South African patriot." South Africa's second coronavirus wave has battered the country, fuelled by a virus variant believed to be more transmissible than the prevailing strain in the first wave. The country has registered over 1.3 million cases since the start of the pandemic, of which 38,854 have been fatal.

South African minister and Ramaphosa ally dies of Covid

We say 'UK Strain', 'Brazil Variant', 'South Africa Variant' - why then do we not say 'Wuhan Virus'? Most pandemics and epidemics have been named after its epicentre. Why should the Wuhan Virus be an exception? WION's Palki Sharma makes a case.

Gravitas: How the W.H.O. is shielding China

The novel coronavirus South Africa is spreading at a rapid pace and amid the surge in a number of deaths, coffin demand has increased sharply in the country.

WION visited ENZO Wood, one of the country's largest coffin manufacturer in Gauteng and was told by an official that the company is under "pressure" to meet the rise in demand.&nbsp;

"Pressure has increased…It is a bit difficult now. We need to push work as much as we can to satisfy the market," said Kasie Pillay, Sales Manager, ENZO Wood.&nbsp;

Pillay said that the manufactures themselves are facing challenges and therefore it is difficult to fulfil market needs.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-african-president-ramaphosa-extends-lockdown-level-3-in-south-africa-356249">South African President Ramaphosa extends lockdown level 3 in South Africa</a>

"With the second wave demand has increased, but there are always challenges…price increase in raw materials, shortage of timber…sometimes it's difficult to cope…You can only make so many units per day," the sales manager said.&nbsp;

WION also talked with Lawrence Konyana, Deputy President, National Funeral Directors Association, who was relieved that coffin manufacturers are back to work in full swing after the December holidays.

"Due to a rising number of deaths, in particular, in the Eastern Cape, funeral directors did indicate that they are running out of coffins. This was attributed to the fact that most of the manufacturers were still on a December break. However, most of them did come back early to start production immediately and further introduce a double shift system to make sure their depots are stocked as soon as possible. Some of the stocks were mobilized from different provinces which were less affected to the ones that were highly affected," Konyana said.&nbsp;

However, Pillay said despite rising deaths, it will not ask its employees to overwork and stick to their original working hours.&nbsp;

" (The) unfortunate part is we need to survive with people dying. It's not a good thing to say but it is a reality. (The) production might have spiked in the second wave but remember we can only manufacture so many boxes in a day. We work flat 7:30 am to 4 pm. We can't burn out our staff. (The) death toll will rise but we can only do so much, unfortunately," Pillay said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The novel coronavirus South Africa is spreading at a rapid pace and amid the surge in a number of deaths, coffin demand has increased sharply in the country. WION visited ENZO Wood, one of the country's largest coffin manufacturer in Gauteng and was told by an official that the company is under "pressure" to meet the rise in demand.

The novel coronavirus South Africa is spreading at a rapid pace and amid the surge in a number of deaths, coffin demand has increased sharply in the country. WION visited ENZO Wood, one of the country's largest coffin manufacturer in Gauteng and was told by an official that the company is under "pressure" to meet the rise in demand. "Pressure has increased…It is a bit difficult now. We need to push work as much as we can to satisfy the market," said Kasie Pillay, Sales Manager, ENZO Wood. Pillay said that the manufactures themselves are facing challenges and therefore it is difficult to fulfil market needs. Also read | South African President Ramaphosa extends lockdown level 3 in South Africa "With the second wave demand has increased, but there are always challenges…price increase in raw materials, shortage of timber…sometimes it's difficult to cope…You can only make so many units per day," the sales manager said. WION also talked with Lawrence Konyana, Deputy President, National Funeral Directors Association, who was relieved that coffin manufacturers are back to work in full swing after the December holidays. "Due to a rising number of deaths, in particular, in the Eastern Cape, funeral directors did indicate that they are running out of coffins. This was attributed to the fact that most of the manufacturers were still on a December break. However, most of them did come back early to start production immediately and further introduce a double shift system to make sure their depots are stocked as soon as possible. Some of the stocks were mobilized from different provinces which were less affected to the ones that were highly affected," Konyana said. However, Pillay said despite rising deaths, it will not ask its employees to overwork and stick to their original working hours. " (The) unfortunate part is we need to survive with people dying. It's not a good thing to say but it is a reality. (The) production might have spiked in the second wave but remember we can only manufacture so many boxes in a day. We work flat 7:30 am to 4 pm. We can't burn out our staff. (The) death toll will rise but we can only do so much, unfortunately," Pillay said.

As Covid-19 explodes in South Africa, coffin demand rises sharply

The novel coronavirus South Africa is spreading at a rapid pace and amid the surge in a number of deaths, coffin demand has increased sharply in the country.

South Africa: As COVID-19 cases explodes, coffin demand rises sharply

South&nbsp;African&nbsp;head coach Mark&nbsp;Boucher&nbsp;said on Thursday that he wanted Jacques&nbsp;Kallis, his long-time friend and former batting star,&nbsp;back&nbsp;in his&nbsp;coaching&nbsp;set-up.

Boucher&nbsp;was speaking on the eve of&nbsp;South&nbsp;Africa’s departure for Pakistan, where they will play two Test matches, starting in Karachi on January 26.

Kallis,&nbsp;South&nbsp;Africa’s leading all-time Test run-scorer, is currently in Sri Lanka as a batting consultant with the England team on a short-term contract.

But&nbsp;Boucher&nbsp;said&nbsp;Kallis&nbsp;“is on my radar” to return in a consultancy role ahead of a planned but unconfirmed Test series against Australia starting in mid-February.

Kallis&nbsp;took on the England job after Kugandrie Govender, then the acting chief executive of Cricket&nbsp;South&nbsp;Africa, said in September that the organisation would no longer hire white consultants.&nbsp;Kallis&nbsp;was a batting consultant for&nbsp;South&nbsp;Africa in their home series against England in 2019/20.

Govender later said exceptions could be made if white consultants had unique skills – and she has since been suspended by CSA’s interim board in the wake of an upheaval during which the entire previous board resigned.

Judith February, a member of the interim board, signalled a change of policy earlier this month when she said CSA’s accelerated racial transformation policy had been put on ice.

Boucher&nbsp;said he had not spoken to anyone from CSA on the transformation issue but said the original decision to block white consultants was “a bit of a pill to swallow".

With the exception of former captain Faf du Plessis, who captained a World XI in a Twenty20 series in 2019, none of the&nbsp;South&nbsp;African&nbsp;players have experience of playing in a country which&nbsp;South&nbsp;Africa have not toured since 2007/08.

Kallis&nbsp;hit three centuries in two Test matches on that tour, scoring 421 runs at an average of 210.50 in a&nbsp;South&nbsp;African&nbsp;series win so he would be ideally suited to offering advice to a largely inexperienced batting line-up.

<h2>No 'buddy selection'&nbsp;</h2>

“The media have been saying he’s my mate and it’s a buddy selection,”&nbsp;Boucher&nbsp;said of&nbsp;Kallis, the third highest run-scorer in Test history behind India's Sachin Tendulkar and Australia's Ricky Ponting.

“Yes, he is a mate of a mine but he’s also a very good cricketer and he can add a lot of knowledge as well, so why wouldn’t we want him&nbsp;back&nbsp;in our&nbsp;set-up?

“Now that it’s been documented in the press that the rules have been changed a bit, he is certainly someone we would like to get&nbsp;back&nbsp;in a consultancy role. I haven’t had any major conversations with Jacques because he is in Sri Lanka now but certainly in the next short period of time, if we can get him involved soon, maybe against Australia, then we must.

“There are a lot of players who have spoken highly of Jacques and the knowledge that he imparted to them. So, yes, he is on my radar. I just hope we treat him with care. He’s shown that he’s got a lot of other opportunities in world cricket so it would be stupid not to try to hang on to him, as long as we don’t mess him around. I know Jacques would love to be working in&nbsp;South&nbsp;African&nbsp;cricket.”

Speaking Wednesday from Galle,&nbsp;Kallis&nbsp;-- while expressing sadness at the way his time working with&nbsp;South&nbsp;Africa had ended -- said he understood the broader context.

"It's the times we're in. There are many other coaches who have gone on to coach other teams –- Gary Kirsten, for example. It's the modern way of the world,"&nbsp;Kallis&nbsp;said.

"It's sad in a way that I can't help out in&nbsp;South&nbsp;Africa but I'm thoroughly enjoying my time here in the England&nbsp;set-up."

South African head coach Mark Boucher said on Thursday that he wanted Jacques Kallis, his long-time friend and former batting star, back in his coaching set-up. Boucher was speaking on the eve of South Africa’s departure for Pakistan, where they will play two Test matches, starting in Karachi on January 26.

South African head coach Mark Boucher said on Thursday that he wanted Jacques Kallis, his long-time friend and former batting star, back in his coaching set-up. Boucher was speaking on the eve of South Africa’s departure for Pakistan, where they will play two Test matches, starting in Karachi on January 26. Kallis, South Africa’s leading all-time Test run-scorer, is currently in Sri Lanka as a batting consultant with the England team on a short-term contract. But Boucher said Kallis “is on my radar” to return in a consultancy role ahead of a planned but unconfirmed Test series against Australia starting in mid-February. Kallis took on the England job after Kugandrie Govender, then the acting chief executive of Cricket South Africa, said in September that the organisation would no longer hire white consultants. Kallis was a batting consultant for South Africa in their home series against England in 2019/20. Govender later said exceptions could be made if white consultants had unique skills – and she has since been suspended by CSA’s interim board in the wake of an upheaval during which the entire previous board resigned. Judith February, a member of the interim board, signalled a change of policy earlier this month when she said CSA’s accelerated racial transformation policy had been put on ice. Boucher said he had not spoken to anyone from CSA on the transformation issue but said the original decision to block white consultants was “a bit of a pill to swallow". With the exception of former captain Faf du Plessis, who captained a World XI in a Twenty20 series in 2019, none of the South African players have experience of playing in a country which South Africa have not toured since 2007/08. Kallis hit three centuries in two Test matches on that tour, scoring 421 runs at an average of 210.50 in a South African series win so he would be ideally suited to offering advice to a largely inexperienced batting line-up. No 'buddy selection' “The media have been saying he’s my mate and it’s a buddy selection,” Boucher said of Kallis, the third highest run-scorer in Test history behind India's Sachin Tendulkar and Australia's Ricky Ponting. “Yes, he is a mate of a mine but he’s also a very good cricketer and he can add a lot of knowledge as well, so why wouldn’t we want him back in our set-up? “Now that it’s been documented in the press that the rules have been changed a bit, he is certainly someone we would like to get back in a consultancy role. I haven’t had any major conversations with Jacques because he is in Sri Lanka now but certainly in the next short period of time, if we can get him involved soon, maybe against Australia, then we must. “There are a lot of players who have spoken highly of Jacques and the knowledge that he imparted to them. So, yes, he is on my radar. I just hope we treat him with care. He’s shown that he’s got a lot of other opportunities in world cricket so it would be stupid not to try to hang on to him, as long as we don’t mess him around. I know Jacques would love to be working in South African cricket.” Speaking Wednesday from Galle, Kallis -- while expressing sadness at the way his time working with South Africa had ended -- said he understood the broader context. "It's the times we're in. There are many other coaches who have gone on to coach other teams –- Gary Kirsten, for example. It's the modern way of the world," Kallis said. "It's sad in a way that I can't help out in South Africa but I'm thoroughly enjoying my time here in the England set-up."

Boucher wants Kallis back in South African coaching set-up

Public and private hospitals in South Africa is grappling with increasing number of Covid-19 patients. In the last seven days hospital admissions have doubled everywhere, Gauteng Premier David Makhura said today.&nbsp;

Makhura visited Steve Biko Academic hospital on Monday after grim pictures of the hospital was trending on social media.&nbsp;

Due to increased number of Covid-19 patients, the hospital put up several tents as treatment areas in its rooftop parking.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-africa-bans-alcohol-sales-tightens-curbs-as-coronavirus-cases-soars-355590">WATCH|</a>

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-africa-bans-alcohol-sales-tightens-curbs-as-coronavirus-cases-soars-355590/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

“The number of fatalities have increased exponentially in Gauteng province. You may remember we did say that after people return from festive season we will foresee significant increase,” Makhura said.

Some of the patients are coming from private hospitals because of lack of space, while others are self-referred from other provinces, he said.

South Africa’s recorded Covid-19 death toll surpasses 33,000 on Sunday and infections increased by 17, 412, taking the total to 1,231,597.

SA President Cyril Ramphosa is going to address the nation tonight at 8pm (local time) on developments in SA’s covid-19 response.

He is expected to address after NCCC meet ( National Coronavirus Command Council )

Public and private hospitals in South Africa is grappling with increasing number of Covid-19 patients. In the last seven days hospital admissions have doubled everywhere, Gauteng Premier David Makhura said today.

Public and private hospitals in South Africa is grappling with increasing number of Covid-19 patients. In the last seven days hospital admissions have doubled everywhere, Gauteng Premier David Makhura said today. Makhura visited Steve Biko Academic hospital on Monday after grim pictures of the hospital was trending on social media. Due to increased number of Covid-19 patients, the hospital put up several tents as treatment areas in its rooftop parking. WATCH| “The number of fatalities have increased exponentially in Gauteng province. You may remember we did say that after people return from festive season we will foresee significant increase,” Makhura said. Some of the patients are coming from private hospitals because of lack of space, while others are self-referred from other provinces, he said. South Africa’s recorded Covid-19 death toll surpasses 33,000 on Sunday and infections increased by 17, 412, taking the total to 1,231,597. SA President Cyril Ramphosa is going to address the nation tonight at 8pm (local time) on developments in SA’s covid-19 response. He is expected to address after NCCC meet ( National Coronavirus Command Council )

South Africa: Hospital struggle to provide beds as coronavirus cases surge

The Beer Association of South Africa has said that brewers are in danger of losing everything after the govt banned the liquor. WION brings you a report.

South Africa bans alcohol sales & tightens curbs as coronavirus cases soars

India has underlined its commitment to supporting African countries "as per African priorities and without conditionalities", Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla said on Wednesday, stressing that the full respect for national ownership can never be over-emphasised.

India welcomes the evolution and rise of Africa as a key factor in the contemporary world, he said while speaking at the UN Security Council Open Debate on "Maintenance of international peace and security: Challenges of maintaining peace and security in fragile contexts.''

"We are committed to supporting African countries in this endeavour, as per African priorities and without conditionalities," Shringla said.

India will continue to support Africa's aspirations and work towards empowering it for a future that is founded on the principles of inclusivity, sustainability, transparency and socio-economic development with dignity and respect, he said.

Shringla said that this is in keeping with the "Ten Guiding Principles of India''s engagement with Africa", as enunciated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his address to Parliament of Uganda in July 2018.

He underscored that full respect for national ownership can never be over-emphasised.

"We should recognise the primacy of national governments and national ownership in identifying and driving priorities, strategies and activities for sustaining peace," he said.

Mr Shringla told the Council that the regional impact of fragility is often underestimated.

"Fragile states have a direct negative spill over effect on neighbouring states, including that of refugee flows, safe havens for terrorists, organised crime, epidemics, weapons trafficking among others. Climate change, water scarcity and resource wars are adding new dimensions to the existing complexity," he said.

India also stressed that there is a strong correlation of the state's fragility with poverty; terrorism, radicalism and violent extremism; pandemics; or the predations of regional powers and international actors.

Shringla highlighted that the international community must not fail to acknowledge that the legacy of colonialism constitutes the foundational basis of the current instabilities that plague the African continent.

He cautioned that "we should not paint all fragility issues with the same brush. We are primarily concerned with situations directly affecting the maintenance of international peace and security."

Noting that while democracy is "undoubtedly" gaining ground in Africa, especially through peaceful transfers of power, Shringla pointed out that African countries, particularly in the Sahel, Central Africa and the Horn of Africa continue to face complex challenges.

"The principal driving factors are chronic political instability; weak governance structures; institutional weaknesses; ethnic divisions; and the presence of terrorist and armed groups," he said, adding that over-exploitation of diminishing resources, mainly in the Lake Chad basin and Great Lakes region, are also exacerbating the problem.

He voiced concern that the Libyan conflict and resulting instability continue to have a negative impact on its neighbours and that the COVID-19 pandemic has only made the situation worse in some countries.

Voicing concern that Africa today is facing serious challenges posed by the growth of terrorism, particularly in the Sahel and Horn of Africa, Mr Shringla said initiatives such as AMISOM, G-5 Sahel Joint Force and Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) need more robust support from the Security Council and the international community.

He also stressed that the Security Council needs to introspect that while more than half of the country issues on the Council's agenda pertain to Africa, the African continent does not even have a single voice amongst the permanent membership to defend its own interests.

"We need to correct this historical anomaly, and collectively support the Ezulwini consensus," he said.

Reflecting on fragile situations, particularly in the African continent, Mr Shringla pointed out that the Security Council should remain respectful of the regional approach adopted by countries, in collaboration with regional organisations to address common challenges.

The collaboration between the UN and the African Union and sub-regional organisations has yielded positive results, he said.

There is need to ensure that the UN and its presence on the ground, its Peacekeeping Operations and Special Political Missions, are sufficiently mandated and resourced to implement a comprehensive understanding of peace and security, he said.

"Having contributed significantly to UN peacekeeping in Africa for six decades, we have seen how peacekeeping missions are struggling to implement ambitious mandates. Peacekeeping missions should have a clear and well thought out exit strategy," Shringla said.

Highlighting India's strong development partnership with Africa, Mr Shringla said New Delhi has reached out to 43 African countries; executed 189 developmental projects in 37 African countries; and around 77 projects are under execution with a total outlay of 12.86 billion dollars.

India supplied critical medicines to several countries in Africa to help them fight the COVID-19 pandemic.

Responding to the call of Secretary General Antonio Guterres, India has upgraded its peacekeeping hospitals in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and South Sudan during the peak of the pandemic.

India has underlined its commitment to supporting African countries "as per African priorities and without conditionalities", Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla said on Wednesday, stressing that the full respect for national ownership can never be over-emphasised.

India has underlined its commitment to supporting African countries "as per African priorities and without conditionalities", Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla said on Wednesday, stressing that the full respect for national ownership can never be over-emphasised. India welcomes the evolution and rise of Africa as a key factor in the contemporary world, he said while speaking at the UN Security Council Open Debate on "Maintenance of international peace and security: Challenges of maintaining peace and security in fragile contexts.'' "We are committed to supporting African countries in this endeavour, as per African priorities and without conditionalities," Shringla said. India will continue to support Africa's aspirations and work towards empowering it for a future that is founded on the principles of inclusivity, sustainability, transparency and socio-economic development with dignity and respect, he said. Shringla said that this is in keeping with the "Ten Guiding Principles of India''s engagement with Africa", as enunciated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his address to Parliament of Uganda in July 2018. He underscored that full respect for national ownership can never be over-emphasised. "We should recognise the primacy of national governments and national ownership in identifying and driving priorities, strategies and activities for sustaining peace," he said. Mr Shringla told the Council that the regional impact of fragility is often underestimated. "Fragile states have a direct negative spill over effect on neighbouring states, including that of refugee flows, safe havens for terrorists, organised crime, epidemics, weapons trafficking among others. Climate change, water scarcity and resource wars are adding new dimensions to the existing complexity," he said. India also stressed that there is a strong correlation of the state's fragility with poverty; terrorism, radicalism and violent extremism; pandemics; or the predations of regional powers and international actors. Shringla highlighted that the international community must not fail to acknowledge that the legacy of colonialism constitutes the foundational basis of the current instabilities that plague the African continent. He cautioned that "we should not paint all fragility issues with the same brush. We are primarily concerned with situations directly affecting the maintenance of international peace and security." Noting that while democracy is "undoubtedly" gaining ground in Africa, especially through peaceful transfers of power, Shringla pointed out that African countries, particularly in the Sahel, Central Africa and the Horn of Africa continue to face complex challenges. "The principal driving factors are chronic political instability; weak governance structures; institutional weaknesses; ethnic divisions; and the presence of terrorist and armed groups," he said, adding that over-exploitation of diminishing resources, mainly in the Lake Chad basin and Great Lakes region, are also exacerbating the problem. He voiced concern that the Libyan conflict and resulting instability continue to have a negative impact on its neighbours and that the COVID-19 pandemic has only made the situation worse in some countries. Voicing concern that Africa today is facing serious challenges posed by the growth of terrorism, particularly in the Sahel and Horn of Africa, Mr Shringla said initiatives such as AMISOM, G-5 Sahel Joint Force and Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) need more robust support from the Security Council and the international community. He also stressed that the Security Council needs to introspect that while more than half of the country issues on the Council's agenda pertain to Africa, the African continent does not even have a single voice amongst the permanent membership to defend its own interests. "We need to correct this historical anomaly, and collectively support the Ezulwini consensus," he said. Reflecting on fragile situations, particularly in the African continent, Mr Shringla pointed out that the Security Council should remain respectful of the regional approach adopted by countries, in collaboration with regional organisations to address common challenges. The collaboration between the UN and the African Union and sub-regional organisations has yielded positive results, he said. There is need to ensure that the UN and its presence on the ground, its Peacekeeping Operations and Special Political Missions, are sufficiently mandated and resourced to implement a comprehensive understanding of peace and security, he said. "Having contributed significantly to UN peacekeeping in Africa for six decades, we have seen how peacekeeping missions are struggling to implement ambitious mandates. Peacekeeping missions should have a clear and well thought out exit strategy," Shringla said. Highlighting India's strong development partnership with Africa, Mr Shringla said New Delhi has reached out to 43 African countries; executed 189 developmental projects in 37 African countries; and around 77 projects are under execution with a total outlay of 12.86 billion dollars. India supplied critical medicines to several countries in Africa to help them fight the COVID-19 pandemic. Responding to the call of Secretary General Antonio Guterres, India has upgraded its peacekeeping hospitals in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and South Sudan during the peak of the pandemic.

We support Africa's empowerment with transparency, inclusivity: India at UN

South Africa will be receiving 1.5 million doses of vaccine from Serum Institute of India (SII), country’s health minister, Dr Zweli Mkhize said in a statement.&nbsp;

“Today, I am pleased to announce that the Serum Institute of India (SII) has given us permission to make a public announcement and start engaging with all relevant stakeholders in preparation for the roll out,” he said.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/death-toll-in-south-africa-crosses-30000-know-risks-of-south-africa-covid-19-variant-354802/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The country will be receiving 1 million doses in January and 500,000 doses in February from the SII.

The minister reiterated that an estimated 1.25 million health care workers from both public and private hospitals will be the first in line to get access to the vaccine.&nbsp;

In order to strengthen the credibility of the process, the acquisition has been done directly by the Department of Health, Mkhize said.

“We will now be engaging all relevant stakeholders in order to ensure the efficient and effective roll out of the vaccine for our health workers,” he added.

According to the latest government statistics, South Africa witnessed a record 21, 832 new cases and 844 new deaths in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of positive cases to around 1.15 million and 31,368 deaths.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

South Africa will be receiving 1.5 million doses of vaccine from Serum Institute of India (SII), country’s health minister, Dr Zweli Mkhize said in a statement. “Today, I am pleased to announce that the Serum Institute of India (SII) has given us permission to make a public announcement and start engaging with all relevant stakeholders in preparation for the roll out,” he said.

South Africa will be receiving 1.5 million doses of vaccine from Serum Institute of India (SII), country’s health minister, Dr Zweli Mkhize said in a statement. “Today, I am pleased to announce that the Serum Institute of India (SII) has given us permission to make a public announcement and start engaging with all relevant stakeholders in preparation for the roll out,” he said. Watch | The country will be receiving 1 million doses in January and 500,000 doses in February from the SII. The minister reiterated that an estimated 1.25 million health care workers from both public and private hospitals will be the first in line to get access to the vaccine. In order to strengthen the credibility of the process, the acquisition has been done directly by the Department of Health, Mkhize said. “We will now be engaging all relevant stakeholders in order to ensure the efficient and effective roll out of the vaccine for our health workers,” he added. According to the latest government statistics, South Africa witnessed a record 21, 832 new cases and 844 new deaths in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of positive cases to around 1.15 million and 31,368 deaths.

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South Africa completed a sweep of their two match series against Sri Lanka as they strolled to a 10-wicket win on the third day of the second test on Tuesday.

South Africa knocked off a target of 67 runs without loss as openers Dean Elgar (31 not out) and Aiden Markram (36 not out) saw them to victory at the Wanderers Stadium – with two and a half days of the contest still remaining.

Success in Johannesburg followed a convincing innings and 45-run triumph in the first test in Pretoria last week and turns around a poor run of test form over the last year.

Sri Lanka were bowled out for 211 in their second innings, surviving only 95 minutes of Tuesday’s morning session. They resumed their second innings at 150-4 overnight with a tenuous five-run lead but with captain Dimuth Karunaratne not out on 91 and hoping to set the home side an imposing target to chase in the fourth innings.

Karunaratne reached his 10th test century off 123 balls as the visitors began in aggressive fashion, but a misjudged pull shot saw the Sri Lanka skipper top edge Anrich Nortje to be caught by Wiaan Mulder in a major blow to their hopes, just 20 minutes into the day’s play. He was dismissed for 103.

“We wanted to turn the pressure over onto South Africa but unfortunately they bowled really well,” Karunaratne said afterwards.

Niroshan Dickwella, who scored 36, followed in the next over as Lungi Ngidi (4-44) took another crucial wicket, setting off an end to the resistance among the lower order.

Lutho Sipamla cleaned up the tail with three wickets in 12 balls, including bowling Wanindu Hasaranga for 16, to finish with figures of 3-40.

Sri Lanka, who won the toss and elected to bat, scored 157 in their first innings and South Africa replied with 302, with Elgar top scoring on 127.

“We wanted to get the new year off to a good start, and it was good to see our experienced batsmen among the runs as well as our young bowling line-up putting up their hands,” said winning captain Quinton de Kock.

South Africa now look ahead to their first visit in 14 years to Pakistan, where they will play two tests and three Twenty20 internationals later this month, while Sri Lanka return home to host England in two tests in Galle. The first starts on Jan. 14.

South Africa completed a sweep of their two match series against Sri Lanka as they strolled to a 10-wicket win on the third day of the second test on Tuesday. South Africa knocked off a target of 67 runs without loss as openers Dean Elgar (31 not out) and Aiden Markram (36 not out) saw them to victory at the Wanderers Stadium – with two and a half days of the contest still remaining.

South Africa completed a sweep of their two match series against Sri Lanka as they strolled to a 10-wicket win on the third day of the second test on Tuesday. South Africa knocked off a target of 67 runs without loss as openers Dean Elgar (31 not out) and Aiden Markram (36 not out) saw them to victory at the Wanderers Stadium – with two and a half days of the contest still remaining. Success in Johannesburg followed a convincing innings and 45-run triumph in the first test in Pretoria last week and turns around a poor run of test form over the last year. Sri Lanka were bowled out for 211 in their second innings, surviving only 95 minutes of Tuesday’s morning session. They resumed their second innings at 150-4 overnight with a tenuous five-run lead but with captain Dimuth Karunaratne not out on 91 and hoping to set the home side an imposing target to chase in the fourth innings. Karunaratne reached his 10th test century off 123 balls as the visitors began in aggressive fashion, but a misjudged pull shot saw the Sri Lanka skipper top edge Anrich Nortje to be caught by Wiaan Mulder in a major blow to their hopes, just 20 minutes into the day’s play. He was dismissed for 103. “We wanted to turn the pressure over onto South Africa but unfortunately they bowled really well,” Karunaratne said afterwards. Niroshan Dickwella, who scored 36, followed in the next over as Lungi Ngidi (4-44) took another crucial wicket, setting off an end to the resistance among the lower order. Lutho Sipamla cleaned up the tail with three wickets in 12 balls, including bowling Wanindu Hasaranga for 16, to finish with figures of 3-40. Sri Lanka, who won the toss and elected to bat, scored 157 in their first innings and South Africa replied with 302, with Elgar top scoring on 127. “We wanted to get the new year off to a good start, and it was good to see our experienced batsmen among the runs as well as our young bowling line-up putting up their hands,” said winning captain Quinton de Kock. South Africa now look ahead to their first visit in 14 years to Pakistan, where they will play two tests and three Twenty20 internationals later this month, while Sri Lanka return home to host England in two tests in Galle. The first starts on Jan. 14.

South Africa win second test for 2-0 series sweep over Sri Lanka

South Africa skipper Quinton de Kock on Sunday said that pacer Kagiso Rabada was not included in the team for the second Test against Sri Lanka as the management wants to keep him fit for the upcoming series against Australia.

Rabada was included in the Proteas squad for the second Test against Sri Lanka, but in the end, he was not selected in the playing XI.

"Not much deliberation on bringing KG back into the squad. We want to keep him fit for the Australia series. We just want to carry forward the momentum and that`s as much as we spoke about," said de Kock during the toss ahead of the second Test.

When asked about Test captaincy, de Kock replied: "I haven`t t thought about captaincy. It`s going alright, hopefully, we can make it two from two. We just want to get another win and start 2021 on a good note. We are well behind in the Test Championship. We don`t mind, either way, it`s not too much of a stress for a toss."Rabada had missed the first Test against Sri Lanka due to a right adductor muscle strain injury.

In the second Test, Sri Lanka won the toss and opted to bat first.

South Africa playing XI: Dean Elgar, Aiden Markram, Rassie van der Dussen, Faf du Plessis, Quinton de Kock(w/c), Temba Bavuma, Wiaan Mulder, Keshav Maharaj, Anrich Nortje, Lutho Sipamla, Lungi Ngidi.Sri Lanka playing XI: Dimuth Karunaratne(c), Kusal Perera, Lahiru Thirimanne, Kusal Mendis, Minod Bhanuka, Niroshan Dickwella(w), Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Vishwa Fernando, Dushmantha Chameera, Asitha Fernando.

South Africa had defeated Sri Lanka by an innings and 45 runs in the first Test of the two-match series. The Proteas are currently at the sixth position in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings. (ANI)

South Africa skipper Quinton de Kock on Sunday said that pacer Kagiso Rabada was not included in the team for the second Test against Sri Lanka as the management wants to keep him fit for the upcoming series against Australia.

South Africa skipper Quinton de Kock on Sunday said that pacer Kagiso Rabada was not included in the team for the second Test against Sri Lanka as the management wants to keep him fit for the upcoming series against Australia. Rabada was included in the Proteas squad for the second Test against Sri Lanka, but in the end, he was not selected in the playing XI. "Not much deliberation on bringing KG back into the squad. We want to keep him fit for the Australia series. We just want to carry forward the momentum and that`s as much as we spoke about," said de Kock during the toss ahead of the second Test. When asked about Test captaincy, de Kock replied: "I haven`t t thought about captaincy. It`s going alright, hopefully, we can make it two from two. We just want to get another win and start 2021 on a good note. We are well behind in the Test Championship. We don`t mind, either way, it`s not too much of a stress for a toss."Rabada had missed the first Test against Sri Lanka due to a right adductor muscle strain injury. In the second Test, Sri Lanka won the toss and opted to bat first. South Africa playing XI: Dean Elgar, Aiden Markram, Rassie van der Dussen, Faf du Plessis, Quinton de Kock(w/c), Temba Bavuma, Wiaan Mulder, Keshav Maharaj, Anrich Nortje, Lutho Sipamla, Lungi Ngidi.Sri Lanka playing XI: Dimuth Karunaratne(c), Kusal Perera, Lahiru Thirimanne, Kusal Mendis, Minod Bhanuka, Niroshan Dickwella(w), Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Vishwa Fernando, Dushmantha Chameera, Asitha Fernando. South Africa had defeated Sri Lanka by an innings and 45 runs in the first Test of the two-match series. The Proteas are currently at the sixth position in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings. (ANI)

SA vs SL: Rabada misses second Test to stay fit for Australia series

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