Numerous sub-Saharan countries acted to stem the spread of coronavirus on Monday, with South Africa announcing a soldier-patrolled lockdown and Senegal and Ivory Coast each declaring a state of emergency. [PRETORIA] Numerous sub-Saharan countries acted to stem the spread of coronavirus on Monday, with South Africa announcing a soldier-patrolled lockdown and Senegal and Ivory Coast each declaring a state of emergency. There have been more than 400 coronavirus cases in Africa's most developed economy - the highest in sub-Saharan Africa - with the number multiplying six-fold in just eight days. 'THE SITUATION IS CRITICAL'More African countries are expected to announce tough confinement measures after sealing their borders and closing public places. The reason for this is unclear, but many African countries have used the precious time to impose travel restrictions, close schools and appeal for social distancing.

Source: The North Africa Journal March 23, 2020 22:18 UTC