South Africa: a containment that is lightening for Mother's Day

Text by: RFI Follow

South Africa is celebrating Mother's Day this May 10. Since the containment was lightened, the florists were part of the businesses authorized to reopen, to sell bouquets on order, while respecting sanitary measures. The country is the most affected by coronavirus on the continent with 9,420 cases and 186 deaths. For Johannesburg florists, this festive weekend is a breath of fresh air after five weeks of total containment where they had to stay closed.

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From our correspondent in Johannesburg,  Claire Bargelès

The shopping street in the Melville district has always been very quiet in recent days, and many gates are still closed. But this Sunday, May 10, the employees are busy in the florist's shop, which sees customers on their doorsteps parading wearing masks, like Adam, who explains: "  It's Mother's Day and mine love lilies. The whole country is slowing down, but I think it's good that some businesses are starting to reopen. We have to support them in these difficult times  ”.

Inside, Louise Daneel makes the bouquets already ordered. She is relieved to have been able to open for this crucial period for her store. "  Fortunately, the flower market was able to reopen last week! she rejoices. This is where we get our supplies. Today, I hope to earn enough to pay half the wages of my employees, pay off some accumulated debts, and still have enough to be able to buy the next flowers  . ”

However, Louise is not sure that her business can continue for a very long time. "We  've been closed for a month and a half, so times are really tough," she complains. I'm not sure what we can count on once Mother's Day is over, what the orders will be. To be honest, I don't know if my store will survive  . ” South Africa could change its restriction levels in the coming weeks according to the evolution of the pandemic.

► Read also: Coronavirus in South Africa: the relaxation of containment raises concerns

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• South Africa
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