AFRICAN MIRROR REPORTER
SOUTH African Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy Gwede Mantashe says he is doing well in hospital, where he is being treated for COVID-19.
Mantashe sent a message on Twitter, saying he was recuperating well at a public hospital. “I have been admitted to a public hospital for medical attention and monitoring. I am doing well. Thanks to the health care workers. Thanks to your messages of support for my family and all persons who have been infected and affected by this virus,” Mantashe said.
Thembelani “Thulas” Nxesi, South Africa’s Minister of Employment and Labour, is the second cabinet minister in hospital after contracting COVID-19.
The South African government has announced that both Nxesi and Mantashe, who tested positive a week ago, were admitted on the advice of their family doctors.
Government spokesperson Phumla Wiliams said: “We wish both Minister Nxesi and Mantashe well and a speedy recovery,” Williams said.
Nxesi and Mantashe are part of the five ministers in President Cyril Ramaphosa’s executive to contract COVID-19.
Others are :
- Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans.
- Hendrietta Bogopane-Zulu, the Deputy Minister of Social Development
- Pathekile Holomisa, the Deputy Minister of Employment and Labour.
The South African government has offered its best wishes to all the people battling with the virus.
“We extend our sincere condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones due to Covid-19. Let us all play our part by giving earnest support to those who are fighting this virus. In protecting ourselves, our families and communities, let us continue to observe all health protocols and regularly wash our hands, properly wear our masks and practice physical distancing,” Willams said.
Three provincial premiers are also in self-isolation after contracting COVID-19. They are David Makhura (Gauteng), Job Mokgoro (North West) and Alan Winde ( Western Cape).
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- SA’s Gauteng Premier tests positive for COVID-19
- SA’s North West politicians hit by COVID-19 storm
- COVID-19 hits South African political parties
