High turn-out as SA embassy re-opens after holiday

Lehlohonolo Lebiletsa

Maseru – Despite the scary figures of the high incidence of Covid-19 in South Africa, need continues to push Basotho to head to the country’s only neighbour as evidenced by the long queue this reporter saw at the South African embassy today.

Dozens braved the rains to line up at the South African embassy seeking study permits, work permits and citizenships, among other services.

In an interview with this publication, Tlatsetso Piet who was also queuing to renew his study permit said he had to be there despite the rains because he wants to leave for South Africa before Covid-19 worsens, which could see borders closed as lockdown restrictions are tightened.

“Things are looking uncertain now and there are rumours cross-border travel could be stopped. I decided I had to come here because I want to leave before international travel is banned though I still have hope that the Covid-19 situation will improve and we will be able to cross to South Africa and back without any difficulties,” he explained.

The South African embassy reopened today after it had been closed for Christmas holidays.