There is panic buying in South Africa as people stock up on food and other essentials ahead of a lockdown on Thursday.
The country has the largest number of confirmed coronavirus cases on the continent, with 554 cases recorded.
The conditions of the lockdown include:
– Individuals will not be allowed to leave their homes except under strictly controlled circumstances.
– All shops and businesses will be closed except those providing essential services.
– Temporary shelters will be set up for the homeless
Medical and security personnel will be exempt from the lockdown
The number of new infections – and deaths – is rising fast across Africa, in spite of lockdowns, curfews and travel bans.
In Nigeria’s commercial capital, Lagos, all markets and shops have been closed , except for those selling food and medicine.
France says it will send special aid to the most vulnerable countries, many of which are in Africa.