Minister Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma on Coronavirus COVID-19 Alert Level 3 religious gatherings
29 May 2020
The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma has after consultations with other cabinet members issued directions on religious gatherings in terms of regulation 37 (1) (a) of the Disaster Management Act, 202 (ActNo.57of202).
The purpose of the issued directions in the schedule relates to norms and standards for religious gatherings that are permitted under regulations to address, prevent and combat the spread of COVID-19.
After wide consultations with the religious sector, government is now in a position to categorise religious counselling as an essential service. This will enable the millions who have been affected by the virus, to receive this much needed service, since the majority cannot afford professional attention of this nature.
The religious gatherings such as church services will be permitted and the phased re-opening will start from 01 June 2020, with maximum of 50 congregants, should the chosen venue be able to accommodate such. Religious organizations should where possible convene services through virtual platforms.