Ramaphosa implemented bans and restrictions regarding schools, universities, prisons, visas, travel and group gatherings.
Hlongwane said the department had instructed all early childhood development and special care centres to be closed from Wednesday to April 15.
“We have taken operational and precautionary measures to close all special care and early childhood centres for the safety and protection of our society.
“You are further urged to encourage families to adopt good health and hygiene practices regularly. We will continue to monitor the containment of the pandemic and advise accordingly.”