Government expands the essential services list

Higher education minister Blade Nzimande and the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma have both this week outlined a number of essential goods which may be sold by South African retailers during the lockdown.

Nzimade's list focused on the list of essential goods for the continued functioning of higher education institutions such as universities and colleges.

While Dlamini-Zuma's list contained items that will form part of continuously updated regulations as the country prepares for a controlled exit from its five-week lockdown.

It has also been noted that the sale of alcohol and cigarettes remained banned, while supermarkets would not be allowed to sell hot foods.

Here is the different list of items added to the essentials list:

1. Education

Nzimande said that the transport of these goods between suppliers and higher education institutions as well as between institutions and individuals will now be declared an essential service.

• Information and Communication Technology devices (such as desktops, laptops, modems and other devices) for education purposes.
   
• Gasses, liquids and chemicals used in the preservation of biological samples and maintenance of equipment and machinery.
   
• Animal feed for laboratory and farm animals.

2. Baby foods and related items 

• Clothing
• Blankets
• Towels
• Cots
• Mattresses
• Teething rings
• Pacifiers
• Bibs
• Feeding bottles
• Other non-consumable goods essential for the care of babies and toddlers.
• These items may only be sold by a retailer who is otherwise permitted to sell essential goods.

3. Hardware items

Hardware, components and supplies may be sold as required by any qualified tradespersons solely for the purpose of essential repairs at residential homes or for entities engaged in the provision of essential services,

4. Vehicle repairs 

Mechanics and repair shops may sell components for vehicles under-going emergency repairs.

However, this only applies where the vehicle is owned by or used by a person engaged in essential services work.

5. Utility repair work

Trades necessary for the rendering of emergency repair work are allowed to operate, including:

• Plumbers
• Electricians
• Locksmiths
• Glaziers
• Roof repair work
• Emergency automobile repairs for persons rendering essential services and for public transport vehicles.
   

Written by: Staff Writer.

Guzzle Media