President Emmerson Mnangagwa yesterday announced a 21 day lockdown as part of government measures to contain the deadly coronavirus that has so far claimed one life in the country.

Addressing the nation last night, Mnangagwa said during the lockdown period only health and industry workers will be allowed to move while all public transport will be suspended.

“While our numbers are both low and for now all imported, this need not induce complacency in us. COVID-19 is now upon us and if experience elsewhere is anything to go by can spread in leaps and bounds in so short a time.

“We are worried that even as our numbers remain low, there is a possibility of wider community spread and transmissions,” said Mnangagwa.

He further noted that the coming of winter in two months time will pose a serious threat as it creates conditions for more infections hence the move to take a decisive stand now.