Responding to the COVID-19 pandemic

Government implemented a nationwide lockdown to slow COVID-19 infections to help prepare the health 

 system moderate the surge of infections.

More than 18 000 additional beds were built, and 55 000 additional healthcare personnel hired to strengthen the health care system.

Increased grants and social support
A historic social and economic relief package was implemented to support vulnerable businesses, workers and households affected by the pandemic. A total of 18 million people received additional grant payments, more than 
5.7 million workers received wage support through the Temporary Employer-Employee Relief Scheme, over R70 billion in tax relief was extended to businesses in distress, and around 
13 000 businesses were helped through a loan guarantee scheme.

Massive COVID-19 vaccine drive
Thirty-nine million doses of COVID-19 vaccines were administered, reaching more than half of all adults and ensuring 65% of everyone over 50 were fully vaccinated.

Solidarity Fund established
The Solidarity Fund was established, together with the private sector, which raised R3.4 billion for South Africa’s response to COVID-19 and the health, humanitarian and social consequences.

Led the COVID-19 continental response
As African Union Chair in 2020, President Cyril Ramaphosa led the continental response to the COVID-19 pandemic, overseeing a continent-wide strategy, setting up innovative online platforms to provide access for all countries to essential medical supplies, mobilising international funding and securing vaccines.
Over 500 million COVID-19 vaccine doses were secured for the continent.
The African Pandemic Response Fund was established, which mobilised US$37 million for local production of vaccines, diagnostics, personal protective equipment, oxygen and critical medicines.
The Africa Medical Supplies Platform was launched, ensuring access for all African countries to vital COVID-19 supplies.