Thank you, hon Chair. South Africa is a nation that has proven over time that we can overcome any obstacle when we are united. The Coronavirus is as such no exception to that resilient determination of this nation. It is therefore of critical importance that all South Africans should heed the call or pronouncement by President Cyril Ramaphosa that we are on a state of national disaster.
All precautionary measures by the President and the team of Ministers led by Minister Zweli Mkhize are important for all of us to abide by. The Democratic Alliance, through the party leader, John Steenhuisen has given its full support and commitment in the fight against COVID-19.
All endeavours must be made to ensure that our communities are educated on the do's and don'ts to curb the spread of the virus. All communication mediums must be used to reach
every citizen of our country.
The DA has suspended all party activities and all our staff members- most of them are working on remote from home. This is to ensure that where we can, we minimise the spread of the virus.
We call on all South Africans to work with health authorities for screening and quarantine if required and obey directives of our health authorities. COVID-19 figures are growing daily, therefore it is important that the Minister of Health or anyone delegated by his office gives us daily updates to keep the nation informed. This will clamp down on the space that is taken by fake news and misinformation.
We need to break the chain of infections if we are to stop the spread of COVID-19. That is why travel restrictions, self-quarantine and good hygiene practices, like washing our hands regularly, are crucial.
We appeal to all South Africans to be considerate and compassionate for one another. This is not the time to stockpile on groceries. Purchase what you need in the short term of a week to ensure that there is enough for everybody. If we work together as the private sector, government and society at large, we can defeat this pandemic. I thank you, Chairperson. [Applause.]