by Grace Chekai   

President Emmerson Mnangagwa told Zimbabweans to take the 21-day lockdown as a way of saving lives rather than punishment.

This comes after the highly infectious COVID-19 disease has to date claimed 38 000 lives and infected 786 000 people globally.

 “Currently COVID-19 is no longer a mere challenge in many countries around the world. It is far worse than a mere challenge, an out of control problem, in fact a pandemic that is taking thousands of lives daily. I say this not to induce fear in your hearts, but that you appreciate the gravity of the situation.

“Thousands of lives, in some of the most advanced nations in the world, from East to West, have been lost. We have an opportunity to ensure that this challenge, which currently exists, does not become insurmountable,” said the President.

“Many countries tragically reacted too late. And today they are facing the consequences. As your President, I have chosen to tackle this challenge before it becomes a problem of insurmountable proportions.”

He said that during this period, the Government would ensure that the medical teams were equipped and protected, and the hospitals were fully prepared.

He said essential services were exempted from the 21 day lockdown and this included the medical field and vital industries.

“Let`s be clear, food suppliers and food stores will remain available and open. Medical supplies will remain open and available.

“A list of vital industries will ensure that the lights remain on, and that the economy`s heart continues to beat, even if it is at a much slower pace,” he said.

President Mnangagwa encouraged those who are coming to work to work responsibly, keeping social distance wherever necessary.

“Those who must work, please work responsibly, keeping your distance wherever necessary. Wear your masks and gloves. Wash your hands thoroughly,” he said.

He urged citizens to spend the next 21 days acting as if they were carriers of the disease.

“I want all of you to spend the next 21 days acting as if you already have the virus, as if you are a carrier. Would you want to infect your friends? Would you want to infect your families? Would you want to infect your countrymen? Of course not. So keep your distance-two metres away from each other.

“Don`t touch your face. Again… Wash your hands. Stay at home,” said President Mnangagwa.

In Zimbabwe, eight people have so far been infected by the corona virus and one person has succumbed to the disease.