Eswatini: Cabinet in isolation in COVID-19 scare

MBABANE, Eswatini

Cabinet ministers in the southern African nation of Eswatini (Swaziland) are going into isolation after one was found to have COVID-19.

Ndlaluhlaza Ndwandwe, the public works and transport minister, had gone into isolation under doctor’s supervision.

"Following this development, all cabinet members will isolate with immediate effect and work from home. Over the isolation period they will hold virtual meetings," said acting government spokesperson Sabelo Dlamini late Saturday.

Eswatini has seen a steady rise in coronavirus infections since the relaxation of protective measures last month.

Prime Minister Ambrose Dlamini gradually opened the economy, allowing cinemas, churches, and public gatherings to have 100 people but with social distancing. Schools are restarting tomorrow amid a protest from a teachers union which has taken the government to court.

Yesterday Health Minister Lizzie Nkhosi announced about 45 new cases and 20 new recoveries, pushing recoveries so far to 535 for 954 cases this year, in a country of about 1.2 million.