Many will be praying that the government relegates strict lockdown rules to the history books as they reflect on the 50% plunge in GDP, which hammered every sector except agriculture, in the second quarter. Included among those who think President Cyril Ramaphosa and team should never entertain such measures again – and in fact have eased up rules far too slowly – is one of the best medical minds in the country.
Professor Shabir Madhi, a vaccinology expert of global standing with the University of the Witwatersrand, told BizNews that, contrary to government statistics, the countryâs death rate from the disease is just as high as Britain’s – at about 1.4%. There are different ways of calculating the figure.
Covid-19 is likely to linger, and may pick up again, but lockdown will destroy more lives than it can save, is his message. Hear the fascinating conversation with Professor Madhi on the Inside Covid-19 podcast – which also includes insights from a top data lawyer, Emma Sadleir, on why the Covid-19 tracing app wonât impinge on your privacy.
* Today at his regular noon webinar, my colleague Tim Modise hosts the DA’s brightest young star, its head of policy Gwen Ngwenya. Here’s the link to register: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1324111475714234383.
* And at the BizNews Finance Friday webinar, attendees have the opportunity hear from one of the smartest South Africans in the global investment industry: Deon Gouws, Chief Investment Officer at Credo Wealth, who spends much of his time in London: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/6646694434270030861.
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PS: Biznews is hiring a modern-day âGirl Fridayâ In bygone years there were reams of notices in The Star newspaper’s classifieds offering jobs for “Girl Fridays” – multi-taskers with secretarial, client-engagement and administrative responsibilities. The growing BizNews team needs someone with those skills, plus being tech savvy, smart and passionate about serving our community. An addiction to social media would be a distinct advantage. As we’re a remote company, geography is irrelevant. If you know someone who fits the bill, please ask them to drop a short motivation (with CV) to Jeanette, our Chief Happiness Officer, at [email protected]. |
Comments
Dear Jackie
It seems to me that each jurisdiction (and person) has to decide which is more important to him/her/it â Dollars or Deaths. âThou shalt not murderâ. In Canada âAll Lives Matterâ more than Dollars.
