Deputy President David Mabuza says government is looking at repurposing up to 7 of Eskom’s power plants, to ensure a more reliable electricity supply to the national grid.

Mabuza was answering questions in Parliament yesterday and said the bouts of loadshedding the country experiences have had a severe negative impact on the economy.

Mabuza says there is also currently a greater drive to incorporate renewable-energy sources into South Africa’s energy mix.

Watch Mabuza’s full address here.

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President Cyril Ramaphosa has tested positive for Covid-19. The office of the presidency confirmed this in a statement on Monday morning and said he is receiving treatment for mild Covid-19 symptoms.

Last week, Ramaphosa returned home from a tour of four West African countries, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, and Senegal. On Sunday, he delivered the official tribute at the Memorial Service for statement FW De Klerk.

In the statement, the Presidency said: “On his recent visit to four West African states, President Ramaphosa and the South African delegation were tested for COVID-19 in all countries.”

“The President and the delegation returned to South Africa from the Republic of Senegal on Wednesday, 8 December 2021, after obtaining negative test results. The President also tested negative on his return to Johannesburg on 8 December.”

Ramaphosa is now self-isolating at his residence in Cape Town and Deputy President David Mabuza has been delegated all responsibilities.

In February, Ramaphosa received his Covid-19 vaccination. The President received the one-dose Johnson & Johnson Covid-19 vaccine.

In the statement, the Presidency said: “President Ramaphosa says his own infection serves as a caution to all people in the country to be vaccinated and remain vigilant against exposure.”

People who have had contact with the President today are advised to watch for symptoms or to have themselves tested.

Deputy President David Mabuza has encouraged community leaders to lead by example and get vaccinated against Covid-19.

Mabuza says this would help encourage those South Africans, who are still hesitant to take the jab, also get their vaccine.

Mabuza says the country’s target of vaccinating at least 38-million adults by 31 December 2021 could be reached if more people get vaccinated as soon as possible.

Read Mabuza’s full speech here.

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