Coronavirus: South African Govt. Orders Repatriation Of Its Citizens From Wuhan

In a communiqué released on Thursday, the President of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, has ordered the return of all South African citizens in Wuhan city, China.

This directive comes after families of South Africans in the city requested that the Government of South Africa repatriated its citizens and other circumstances.

The statement reveals that there are 199 citizens of South Africa in Wuhan, and of the 199, 132 have indicated an interest in leaving.

The communiqué says in part, “These compatriots are currently living under lockdown conditions following the outbreak of the coronavirus.

“None of the affected individuals has been diagnosed with the virus nor have they exhibited any symptoms thereof. Upon arrival in South Africa, they will be placed in quarantine for 21 days as an additional precautionary measure.

“The government has been in constant communication with the families of all affected individuals and relevant departments have made the necessary arrangements to receive them.

“The Departments of Health and Defence will deploy healthcare personnel and supporting staff to provide assistance during the repatriation and quarantine processes. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) will deploy consular services personnel to provide consular assistance.

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“Department of Home Affairs (DHA) will provide immigration services.

‘Department of Social Development (DSD) will offer trauma counselling and support. Further details in this regard will be communicated by the relevant line function ministries.

“The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the outbreak of the virus, which set in motion coordination efforts worldwide, as well as the implementation of strict surveillance measures, as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. The COVID-19 virus (Corona Virus), was first reported in Wuhan, China in November 2019.”