South Africa has been removed from the UK’s travel ‘Red List’ that banned almost all travel between the two countries. The decision announced by the UK Government earlier Friday will come into force on Monday.
In more good news the UK will also now recognise proof of vaccines administered in South Africa, meaning travellers will not have to quarantine on arrival.
It’s the news that many have been waiting for. The decision has been welcomed by South Africans in the UK.
In the city of Bristol, there is a slice of South Africa. The shop Kalahari Moon sells a wide variety of products that provides a taste of home and a chance to hear a familiar accent and see a friendly face.
Lee-Ann Dickinson, who now works here, but only after she used to shop as a customer says, “I used to come in here on my homesick days. You look at the products, and you hear the adverts, and you sing the song and you feel a little bit better and you walk out again and it just keeps you going.”
After months of separation, families and friends in the UK and South Africa can soon be together again.
Earlier this week, Health Minister Joe Phaahla said he’s optimistic that the United Kingdom will soon remove South Africa from the list.
South Africa, Brazil and Mexico were on the list.
Removing them from it would allow travellers to visit the countries without having to self-isolate on their return.
Last week, President Cyril Ramaphosa said he had spoken to British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on the issue.
