COVID-19 OUTBREAK: Blow for entertainment industry

Mbabane: The Eswatini entertainment and tourism industry has definitely be dealt a huge blow due to the outbreak of the deadly Coronavirus that proves to be persistent, thus affecting the hordes of fun lovers in the country.

Following the pronouncement of a National Emergency by Prime Minister Ambrose Mandvulo Dlamini on March 27 after being commanded by His Majesty the King, more hang out spots are set to close for business and all entertainment events have been cancelled while the spread of COVID -19 is being closely monitored.  As per the announcement, gatherings attracting more than 50 people have been banned. These include conferences, funerals, weddings, entertainment and all sporting activities.

Entertainment events bring together a lot of people hence increasing the possibility of the virus transmission. Noticeably, banning of gatherings attracting more than 50 people will directly negatively impact most artists and event organizers as they would be compelled to cancel or postpone the events in a bid to contain and prevent the spread of COVID -19 that has claimed 6 000 lives worldwide. There is only one confirmed case in Eswatini so far.

Favourite hangout sports which recently hosted popular South African artist has announced closure and some announced improved prevention measures to prevent Coronavirus.

Some of the cancelled events are the following:

MTN BUSHFIRE

One of the first mega events which bring people from around the globe, the MTN BUSHFIRE, has been postponed due to the spread of the novel Coronavirus. In a media statement, BUSHFIRE said with the spread of the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) increasing in Southern Africa and across the globe, MTN BUSHFIRE was postponed to 28-30 May, 2021.

WORSHIP ENCOUNTER

Worship encounter with Sbu Noah which was set to take place this coming weekend has been postponed. In a correspondence sent by Leserato events when cancelling the show said, they have taken a decision to postpone the 2020 event indefinitely. Leserato events urged people to keep their tickets safe.

SUNDAY CUTLERY EXPERIENCE

Not to be left out, the Rednote Africa Sunday Culinary Experience that brings intimate food session and headlined by renowned South African chefs has also been postponed.

The Sunday Culinary Experience was scheduled for March 29. Food lovers looking forward to the Gin and Rose’s themed event who had already booked their seats are advised to hold on to their bookings as they will be valid for the session upon confirmation of new dates or they should contact the Chief Disruptor, Khetsiwe Dlamini for refunds.

AMAPIANO COOLER BOX PARTY

Amapiano Cooler Box Party which was set to take place on March 28 at Malkerns has also been postponed. A statement from Illa Penboy reads: “Due to the evolving situation around the Coronavirus (COVID-19) we have decided to postpone our March 28 Amapiano Cooler Box Party. We apologize for the inconvenience this may cause you, but please look for our rescheduled date.”

ROAST WITH DR. SHAKES

Another event that was scheduled for March 26 has also been postponed. Postponing the event Dr. Shakes said: “In response to the statement and directive issued by the Prime Minister, we as the organizing committee of The Roast of Dr. Shakes have decided to postpone our event due to the COVID-19 which we have been closely monitoring.” He requested ticket holders to hold on to their tickets as the event will take place once the situation normalises. Dr. Shakes sincerely apologized for the inconvenience, and urged people to be safe, practice social distancing and good hygiene.

HMCS SUSPENDS CHOIR PRACTICE

Melisizwe Zwane who is in charge of His Majesty’s Correctional Services Choir (HMCSC) said they have suspended all choir practice. “In accordance with the two months state of emergency and other protocols put in place by the government in particular the social gatherings restriction, the management saw it fit to prioritize the safety of all members and suspend all practice sessions until further notice.”

STANDARD BANK CHORAL MUSIC COMPETITIONS

After receiving over 260 000 SZL sponsorship, the event which was scheduled to take place next month has been suspended.

SOLANIS SHISANYAMA CLOSED

Solanis Shisanyama has been one of the hangout spots that announced its closure.

The popular hangout spot announced its closure, saying in accordance with the statement issued by the Prime Minister to evoke section 29 of the Disaster Management Act of 2006 to declare a National Emergency in the Kingdom of Eswatini with immediate effect, Solanis management has decided to close all venues under the Solanis brand (Shisanyama and Executive Lounge) until further communication is received from government.

Xchange Another hangout spot that has introduced measures to control Coronavirus virus is the Xchange Lounge in Ngwane Park. “In light of the on-going corona virus concerns the Xchange Lounge has introduced the following safety measures: Sanitizers will be provided in all entry points and patrons are also advised to disclose flue like symptoms so they can be provided with masks. Hourly inspection of every table will be done to keep all surfaces in an immaculate condition.”

MONDAY THERAPY SUSPENDED

Management of The Vibe has issued a statement that due to the Coronavirus outbreak. Monday Therapy management has decided to put on hold sessions which takes place every Monday at The Vibe, Ngwane Park, and as soon as the Coronavirus is controlled, sessions will resume as normal.