Don’t underestimate unity, humanity and science

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I wouldn’t bet against the power of unity, humanity and science.

The next month will be tough for South Africans but we are united in purpose behind a clearly defined vision and plan of action.

The South African government is doing everything right. Last night President Ramaphosa explained simply and clearly what we are going to do next as a nation. He importantly talked not just about the what but also the why.

The full 21 day lockdown is exactly the right thing to do. We are essentially running with a “Hammer & Dance” protocol. If you want to understand this approach better read the excellent article on the topic by Tomas Pueyo.

The South African government response has unified non-profits, schools, businesses, the financial institutions, religious groups, all political parties, the police, defense force and our medical emergency services.

The next month will be tough but we are united in purpose behind a clearly defined vision and plan of action.

It reminds me of how Matt Damon’s character in The Martian is stranded on the red planet but doesn’t resign himself to death. He uses his botany skills to grow food. He famously says: “I’m going to have to science the shit out of this.”

South Africans are doing what must be done, and in doing so we are buying valuable time for the millions of scientists in the world to work on treatments and vaccines.