New Covid travel ban a blow for SA

Just six weeks after fighting to get off many countries’ red list for travelling abroad, South Africa has had travel restrictions imposed on it again.

The United Kingdom, Singapore, Germany, Israel, Italy, Spain, Malaysia, United Arab Emirates, Mauritius and the Philippines on Friday imposed travel restrictions on SA and other African countries following the department of health’s announcement on Thursday that a new variant – the B.1.1.529 known as Omicron – has been detected in
parts of SA. Many other countries are expected to follow suit.

While it’s understandable why these countries have made the decision, we agree with International Relations and Cooperation Minister Naledi Pandor, who suggested “the decision was far too hasty” as it will damage our tourism and business sectors.

ALSO READ: B.1.1.529 variant: Dirco says UK govt rushed decision to place SA on its red list

Further damage to our economy is the last thing we can afford, as SA was preparing for increased tourist numbers
over the festive period.

The World Health Organisation, perhaps, hit the nail on the head when it urged countries to base travel curbs
on a “risk-based and scientific approach”. It “could take weeks to understand the implications of the new strain”.

Tourism Minister Lindiwe Sisulu did well to calm fears, saying “SA will continue working with policymakers abroad to ensure the best possible interventions are put in place”.

But many tourists are likely to cancel bookings here.

President Cyril Ramaphosa and his National Coronavirus Command Council meet tomorrow.

This could be their most important meeting yet.