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The South African lockdown is 21-days long, but some experts argue that it may be extended. According to security expert Jakkie Cilliers from the Institute of Security Studies, the 21-day lockdown period needs to display a change in the curve, and we’ll only know what the curve looks like in approximately one week.
The country currently faces serious challenges, many illuminated by the coronavirus however, Cilliers states that President Cyril Ramaphosa’s action has been decisive and impressive. This is displayed by COSATU’s alignment with Ramaphosa’s lockdown plan, as they and the general public have been expected to take wage constraints in an effort to reduce the spread of the virus. At this current moment, people are not able to organise and protest wage cuts due to the Disaster Management Act limiting people’s movement.
What possible security threats have been created by the coronavirus?
Xenophobic riots
As the lockdown progresses, tensions are expected to rise. The lockdown will impact the lives of poor South Africans significantly and this may lead to xenophobic attacks, which stem from poverty and desparation, says security expert Celliers.
Despite this, it may be easier to maintain law and order during the lockdown due to the restriction of people’s movement.
Domestic violence
Domestic abuse is on the rise globally as many countries undergo lockdowns to halt the spread of Covid-19. South Africa is notorious for its high gender based violence statistics, with a femicide rate that is comparable to countries that are at war. Domestic abuse is expected to spike in the country during this period, with the government using its limited resources to fight against it.
Economy
As it stands, South Africa is in junk status, which means the economy is in a recession. The country has been dealing with economic challenges for years and the lockdown will exacerbate them. It may take 5-10 years for the global economy to stabilise, just like the 2008/2009 recession, and the South African government may have to resort to borrowing money from institutions like the International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank or China.
Here are some important numbers to note:
Gender-Based Violence Command Centre 0800 428 428.
South African Police Service 10111
Coronavirus Hotline 0800 029 999
