German embassy prepares evacuation of about 7,000 nationals from South Africa

At least, 7,000 German citizens will be evacuated from South Africa due to coronavirus, according to the Greman embassy in South Africa.

A local media report claims that 47 German tourists are under quarantine in the country after one of them tested positive to Covid-19.

While Germany is currently battling with more than 62,000 coronavirus cases and 541 deaths, South Africa has confirmed at least 1,280 cases and two deaths, the highest recorded cases in Africa.

President Cyril Ramaphosa, in order to curb the spread of the virus, initiated a nationwide lockdown.

German ambassador to South Africa Martin Schäfer on Monday told SA FM Radio that they estimate there could be between "seven to nine thousand Germans stuck in the country".

He said:

"We have political will in Germany, we have the means and the money to do it [repatriation] and I think it's the most human thing to do to help get them home.

"We need a lot of help. We have a strong partner in South African Airways who is willing to help us with the repatriation flights and we rely now somewhat on the assistance... of the South African government to make sure that our people can make it to the airport and can be flown out."