The sound of music is toned down over virus

The social circuit in parts of the Waterberg is re-positioning themselves to respond to a Presidential decree on mass gatherings.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared a national ban on mass gatherings attended by more than 100 people.

Modimolle’s Hapido Café owner, Thato Mohapi, said as a business and community they had no choice but to respect the President’s clarion call.

He was concerned that with winter around the corner, the flu season was bound to kick in, with the potential to cause confusion about the related symptoms to corona virus infections among ordinary people.

He lamented the fact that businesses within the broader social circuit would be negatively affected by the activity and responses towards the coronavirus outbreak.

In Bela-Bela Menzi Ngwenya of Maks Corner Shisanyama said at least one high-profile gig scheduled for the Easter Weekend, featuring deejays invited from outside Bela-Bela, has been cancelled as a precautionary measure.

“We are already feeling effects of CONVID 19, and less than 100 patrons is a definite dent in our income. But we have to ensure the safety of our patrons and staff,” he said.

An open-air air party billed for Bela-Bela, also featuring a line-up of high-profile artists, has also been cancelled.

StreetKid events management organiser, Tshego Ringo, said the party scheduled for Saturday 21 March and Sunday 22 March has been called off.

“All those who purchased the tickets will be refunded,” he said.

In Mookgophong, Jones Tavern owner, Jones Ratema, said the declaration by President Ramaphosa took him by complete surprise.

He also committed that his venue will adhere to the highest standards of safety practices against the coronavirus outbreak.

— The BEAT