“THE mask was suffocating!”
These were the words of a relieved Thato Molefe (36) after President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that masks would no longer have to be worn outdoors.
During his address to the nation on Tuesday, 22 March, the president said masks would only be mandatory while in a public space.
Kasi residents had mixed reactions to the announcement, with some welcoming the news and others feeling it was too soon.
Thato said: “We have to protect ourselves against Covid-19, but masks are very uncomfortable and suffocating.
“Studies done suggest that masks have a negative effect on oxygen levels. I strongly believe the carbon dioxide we exhale gets stuck in the mask.”
Johnny Malape (53) said: “I welcome the announcement with open arms. It was about time because many people have vaccinated.
“I also agree with the president that in public indoor spaces, it should be mandatory to wear a mask because it often gets crowded.”
However, Abraham Motlafi (46), said he will continue wearing a mask.
“While many seem happy not to be wearing a mask, I’ll continue wearing it until there are no more deaths relating to Covid-19,” he said.
Thato Chacha (42) said: “I’m happy that we can finally recognise one another on the streets. However, I’m a bit worried because many of us haven’t vaccinated for various reasons. I have not because I have chronic illnesses.”
Qondokuhle Khathi (28) said: “I’m not happy about the announcement because not everyone has vaccinated. Therefore, we are still exposed to danger.”
Thabang Taele (34) said: “From the beginning, I hated the mask. I didn’t wear it unless I was forced to. The news doesn’t come as a relief because I never wore it anyway.”
