New restrictions have been announced to curb South Africa’s rising number of Covid-19 infections.

In an address to the nation on Monday evening, President Cyril Ramaphosa said that in one week, the daily average of new cases has lept by 74%, and daily deaths have risen by nearly 50%.

In response, the President has declared two new “hotspot” districts, and closed a large number of parks and beaches.

The curfew will also now begin at 23h00 – meaning bars and restaurants must close at 22h00.

And alcohol sales will be limited the Mondays to Thursday from 10h00 until 18h00.

Ramaphosa has warned that if we don’t change how we celebrate the holidays, it’ll be the last Christmas for too many South Africans:

” I am asking you to keep your celebrations small and to avoid crowds. If you are spending time with other people, I am asking you to do so outside, enjoying the splendid South African summer weather, or at least to make sure that you are in a well-ventilated space”.