South African President CYRIL RAMAPHOSA has warned that tough times lie ahead as the country brace for the economic fallout from the corona virus pandemic.

President RAMAPHOSA imposed a strict lockdown on March 27 to try to limit the spread of COVID-19 and prepare hospitals for an expected surge in cases, but the move has however cost the economy dearly. 

The President in his weekly newsletter says there are no quick fixes and citizens have to be realistic about the prospects of the economy bouncing back.

Finance Minister TITO MBOWENI is due to present a revised budget after government announced an unscheduled 500-billion-rand economic stimulus and social relief package, including 100 billion rand for job protection.