By Mduduzi Hlophe

MBABANE: Prime Minster Ambrose Mandvulo Dlamini has extended the partial lockdown with three weeks with effect from today midnight.

Addressing the media at the Cabinet offices today, the PM said he has been commanded by the King to extend the partial lockdown, saying this was meant to protect lives.

“While a lot has been achieved in the past 20 days, the risk of an uncontrollable spread remains high. It is for this reason that I have been commanded by His Majesty King Mswati III and Ingwenyama to announce an extension of the partial lockdown for another three weeks”said the Prime Minister.

The PM noted that the coronavirus has disturbed government efforts for a renewal economic drive.

“The partial lockdown that began on the 27^thof March has changed the way of life as we are used to, it has strained our economy and adversely affected business, health, education and delayed economic renewal drive” said the PM.