President Cyril Ramaphosa has ended a week of self-isolation after testing positive for Covid-19. Ramaphosa thanked all South Africans, local and international friends who conveyed their good wishes to him since the test result on December 12 and wished those infected with the coronavirus “a safe and speedy recovery”.
Minister in the presidency Mondli Gungubele said Ramaphosa has returned to duty and will chair the final cabinet meeting for 2021 on Wednesday.
“President Ramaphosa repeats his call for everyone in the country to stay safe by being vaccinated, wearing face masks, washing or sanitising hands frequently, maintaining a social distance and avoiding gatherings,” said Gungubele.
In a related development, Minister of mineral resources and energy Gwede Mantashe has tested positive for Covid-19. Mondli Gungubele said Mantashe tested positive on Saturday after experiencing mild symptoms.
“Minister Mantashe is in good spirits and he is currently in self-isolation,” reads the statement. The government has urged South Africans to vaccinate and remain disciplined in observing Covid-19 safety protocols .