Social media was abuzz with excitement Friday night following the announcement of government’s decision to lift the ban on the sale of alcohol.

President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi in his address to the nation on Friday announced lifting of the alcohol sale ban and other decisions in view of declining numbers of COVID-19 cases and deaths.

 The regulations effect Monday at midnight.

 “The ban on the sale of alcohol will be lifted and allowed to on a takeaway basis as per level 3 of the Emergency Framework,” he said.

However, President Masisi cautioned that even with the easing of restrictions, all should continue to take necessary precautions to combat the spread of COVID-19.

“Bagaetsho, even as we ease these restrictions, we should be cognisant of the recent detection of a new C.1.2 variant in Botswana. This new highly mutated variant could lead to a resurgence of new infections which could usher in the fourth wave,” he said.

“I, therefore, urge each of you to take responsibility to protect yourselves, your loved ones, and the nation by continuing to wear your masks appropriately, washing your hands with soap or sanitising, maintaining social distancing, and avoiding unnecessary travel,” the President pleaded.

Other changes that effect on Monday include the curfew hours which would now start at 10pm and end at 4am instead of 8pm as has been the case for the past three weeks.

The President also announced that all public gatherings including kgotla meetings, merapelo, weddings, patlo and magadi would be re-instated on condition that the COVID-19 health protocols are followed.

As has been the case, a maximum of 50 people are permitted at religious gatherings and church services and allowed to take place twice a week.  Funerals will continue to take place within five days from the date of death. BOPA