Dear Dr Mkhize
Well done on your uniformly sensible, logical and informative approach to the Covid19 situation. Social distancing and hygienic practices within the context of the population densities of townships and informal settlements, as well those of public transport, can only ever be a target to aim for. However, your consistent message as to why they are crucial is clearly reaching most people.
Given that Covid19 is an unknown quantity in many respects, as well as the need for a pragmatic consideration of people’s circumstances, it is to be expected that the regulations governing the lockdown will need to be adjusted from time to time. These will naturally entail compromises between best and most achievable practice.
I write ask you to consider another such adjustment – to lift the ban on dog walking. Initially you supported the practice, but this was overturned by the Minister of Police. As I am sure you are aware, walking their dog is often an important way of keeping people (especially the elderly) mobile. It also gives a structure and focus to their day and thus assists in protecting against anxiety and depression.
It is simple to police that people are not walking dogs in groups and are keeping an appropriate distance from others.
There seems to be no logical reason why dog walking should not be permitted. This is an adjustment to the regulations that will greatly assist people in coping with the stresses of the lockdown.
Thank you for your consideration
Dr Pat Miller