Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy tests positive for Covid-19

All South Africans are urged to heed the call to observe Covid-19 regulations and help the country contain the spread of the virus.

July 18, 2020

Fanie Mthupha 1 minute read

FILE PHOTO: Minister Gwede Mantashe led the dignitaries who, along with thousands of South Africans, gathered in Thomas Nkobi Memorial Park to commemorate the 23rd anniversary of the assassination of former SACP leader Chris Hani in 2016. Photo: Fanie Mthupha

Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy Gwede Mantashe and his wife, Nolwandle, have tested positive for Covid-19.

Cabinet spokesperson Phumla Williams confirmed in a statement the Boksburg resident received his results on July 14.

According to Williams, it was the minister’s third round of tests to be conducted since the outbreak of this virus.

Mantashe and his wife are in isolation. The minister will continue to work from home, and he has directed all members of his private office in government to also undergo Covid-19 tests.

“The minister remains committed to a course of ensuring security of energy and petroleum products supply to society during this difficult period and beyond.

“As we wish minister and Mrs Mantashe a speedy recovery, we extend the same well wishes to the thousands of South Africans and their families who are also battling the coronavirus,” said Williams in the statement.

Williams urged all South Africans to continue playing their part in observing the WHO protocols of washing hands regularly, wearing a mask and practising social distancing.