By Mduduzi Hlophe

MBABANE:  Prime Minister Ambrose Mandvulo Dlamini has warned the nation to drink alcohol responsibly as the sale and distribution of liquor begins on Monday, 26 October 2020.

Speaking during a press briefing held at the cabinet offices in Mbabane on Thursday afternoon, the Prime Minister said though there is a decline in COVID -19 infections, the war against the virus is still not yet over and therefore there is no room for complacency.

‘‘I would like to remind all Emaswati that while consuming alcohol can be a joyous occasion for some,it is important to observe not just the health guidelines but the liquor re-opening guidelines. These guidelines are to be observed strictly, failure to which we will not hesitate the close of any establishment that fails to adhere to these protocols’’, he said.

 Bheki Mamba, the President of the Swaziland Democratic Nurses Union (SWADNU)in earlier interview with this publication expressed his concerns that the country will not be able to handle a second wave of the virus.

‘‘Government is failing to provide the health sector with resources like PPE’s , drugs and medical equipment, a second wave of the virus is likely to find us unprepared and many lives will be lost as a result.’’said  the SWADNU President.