Electricity Minister to Receive Donation of Energy Equipment

In a significant development, the first consignment of an energy equipment donation by the People’s Republic of China is poised to be received by Dr Kgosientso Ramokgopa, the Minister in the Presidency for Electricity. SANews reports that the ceremonial handover of the consignment will take place in Pietermaritzburg on Thursday, marking a crucial step in bolstering South Africa’s energy infrastructure.

This donation is a crucial component of the Technical Assistance Programme established in August 2023 during China’s Head of State Visit to South Africa. The initial consignment, now in South Africa, comprises 450 gasoline generators. These generators are earmarked for distribution to public service facilities nationwide, particularly in clinics, schools, and courts. The primary aim is to provide backup power to mitigate the impacts of load shedding, ensuring the uninterrupted delivery of essential services. The government continues to implement the Energy Action Plan, aiming to end load shedding and establish sustainable energy security for the nation.

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In a statement, the Presidency highlighted these generators’ vital role in supporting critical services. The statement expressed, “The generators will be used as backup to alleviate the impacts of load shedding in the delivery of services in clinics, schools, and courts whilst government continues to implement the Energy Action Plan to ultimately end load shedding and create sustainable energy security.”

This significant donation follows expressions of gratitude earlier in the year during an Official State Visit to South Africa by Chinese President Xi Jinping, where President Cyril Ramaphosa acknowledged China’s supportive role. President Ramaphosa said, “South Africa deeply appreciates China’s support in addressing our current energy challenges. This includes the donation of emergency power equipment worth R167 million and availing a grant of approximately R500 million as development assistance.”

President Ramaphosa emphasised the ongoing cooperation with China in the energy sector, highlighting the collaborative spirit. He said, “Energy cooperation with China is a recent development that we look to deepen, particularly in line with our respective commitments to low-carbon, climate-resilient development.” The generosity of this donation and the continued collaboration between the two nations offer a glimpse of hope in addressing South Africa’s energy challenges and advancing towards a more sustainable and resilient future.

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Pictures:  Pixabay / 文 邵 & Positive_Images

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