South Africa’s president has said Coronavirus infections appear to have peaked in the country, as he announced a sweeping relaxation of lockdown measures.

According to BBC, President Cyril Ramaphosa said nearly all restrictions on the country’s economy will be eased from Monday, August 17, 2020.

A controversial ban on the sale of alcohol and tobacco will be lifted.

Domestic travel, small family gatherings and the reopening of businesses will all be allowed.

In a TV address on Saturday, August 15, 2020, Ramaphosa said the easing of restrictions will help to revive the country’s flagging economy after a period of great hardship for the country.

However, he called on South Africans not to let their guard down against Covid-19 despite “signs of hope”, warning of difficult times ahead.

The country has recorded more than half of Africa’s coronavirus infections, with more than 570,000 cases and 11,500 deaths to date.