Africa-Press – Eswatini. Government’s announcement on the eased adjusted level 1 restrictions on the arts sector has been welcomed with both hands.
This is a reaction most creatives in the arts sector felt when Prime Minister (PM) Cleopas Sipho Dlamini announced that most restrictions on entertainment events and outdoor sporting activities were lifted. With regards to the arts sector, Dlamini said, “Patrons at outdoor entertainment events will be required to wear face masks correctly and observe social distancing of at least one metre. Patrons at indoor entertainment events are required to wear face masks correctly and observe one metre social distancing. Organisers of indoor entertainment events are also expected to provide adequate sanitisation points.
This comes after the country has seen a gradual decrease with COVID-19-related cases. As of Monday, there were 23 new COVID-19 cases while there were no fatalities recorded.
According to the Ministry of Health daily reports, the total fatalities recorded since the coronavirus pandemic outbreak in March 2020 stood at 1 394 while the total recoveries stood at 68 264. Meanwhile, 339 080 people have been fully vaccinated locally which is equivalent to 29.2 per cent of the kingdom’s total population. Revered female DJ Lady Zee commented on this as she said: “The lifting of the COVID-19 restrictions has really brought relief. I mean, especially the opening of events and the fact that we can cross the border now if you are fully vaccinated.
Excited
“Now I can be able to take-up more bookings, especially outside Eswatini without having to worry about the costs of PCR tests. I’m really excited about everything and I hope for the best so we maintain this level.” Mega Lounge’s DJ Zulu D shared the same sentiments. He mentioned that it was news worth celebrating for, as the restrictions had been a thorny issue for most event promoters in the country. “We would like to thank the government for this move as it will adversely affect the country’s economy, positively, because this will allow more activity within the arts space. Although I am not allowed to divulge much for now, there is something planned for fun lovers and Mega Lounge patrons very soon so stay tuned,” he said.
Eswatini National Council of Arts and Culture CEO Stanley Dlamini collaborated the above statements as he mentioned that it had been a difficult two years of the COVID-19 pandemic, whereby the arts industry had immensely suffered. “We appreciate the decision pronounced by government on our creative sector. It’s been a difficult two years of COVID-19 and the industry suffered since it depends entirely on audiences and or gatherings.
Appreciates
“Our fraternity appreciates the PM’s consideration and once again, I call on emaSwati to receive and embrace local talent in their numbers,” he commented. He further emphasised the need for COVID-19 compliance at gatherings and also called on the public to vaccinate.
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