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An online study by market research and consulting firm Ipsos found that more than eight in 10 South Africans online support the blockade.
“84% agree that a total block was correct, given the risks of the Covid-19 pandemic,” their spokesperson, Mari Harris, said in a statement on Friday.
The country entered a three-week blockade on March 26 to minimize the spread of the virus, which then extended for another two weeks.
Next, President Cyril Ramaphosa introduced a risk-adjusted strategy that includes five levels of blocking to allow economic activity while managing the virus.
The online study involved 1,000 South African adults aged 18-65 from all provinces and population groups. It was held from April 20 to 22.
“Despite much media comment and criticism from individuals, South Africans from all work status groups share this view,” said Harris.
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The study found that for people working full-time, 18% thought a total block was excessive and would not solve the problem, while 82% found that a total block was correct given the risk.
Of the part-time working group, 15% did not support the block, while 85% did.
Those who did not work supported the blockade in 84%, while 16% were not, and of the unemployed, 86% were in the closure while 14% were not.
“This acceptance is expressed by all age groups, however, those over 56 years old and, to a lesser degree, those between 26 and 35 years old, are less understanding.
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“The last group’s apprehension may be related to having to care for young children / keep them entertained during this period of confinement,” said Harris.
The study also found that the majority of South Africans (78%) expected the blockade to extend beyond the end of April.
Given the support for the blockade, it’s no surprise that online South Africans feel strongly [86%] that people who break the rules should not expect much mercy, “he added.
Nearly 92% of the study found that people take the virus into account before thinking about where they will go, who they will meet, and what they will do on a particular day.
The study also showed that fear of infection has not led to a complete change in purchasing behavior, but 22% indicated that they make more use of online shopping.
“This new behavior is prevalent among all age groups, but more so in the 26-35 age group,” said Harris.
Additionally, 67% of South Africans say they visit major shopping malls less frequently.
“This study is representative of almost two thirds of South Africans who can access the Internet at home or on their mobile phones,” he added.
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