In a recent development, President Cyril Ramaphosa has dismissed concerns regarding Minister Gwede Mantashe’s commitment to the implementation of government policy.

Ramaphosa engaging with members of the media

Ramaphosa assured the public that there are no issues, emphasizing Mantashe’s significant role in signing an impressive number of Renewable Independent Power Producer (IPP) agreements.

Mantashe’s Commitment to Government Policy

President Ramaphosa acknowledged Minister Mantashe’s proactive stance in signing numerous Renewable IPPs, indicating his dedication to implementing the government’s renewable energy policy. The sheer volume of these agreements stands as a testament to Mantashe’s commitment and his drive to progress towards sustainable energy sources.

Ramaphosa said government has consistently emphasized the importance of renewable energy as a significant component of its policy framework.

The MOU Incident

One of the key incidents that recently raised concerns surrounding Minister Mantashe’s dedication involved the signing of a green energy Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

The Sunday Times had previously reported that Mantashe opted not to attend a top-level meeting with European leaders for the signing of the MOU. Instead, he attended a Cosatu event in Boksburg. In his absence, International Relations Minister Naledi Pandor signed the MOU on his behalf.

President Ramaphosa’s Support

Despite the criticism faced by Minister Mantashe for his non-attendance at the MOU event, President Ramaphosa emphasized that the agreement was still signed by the government in the presence of the Danish and Dutch Prime Ministers during their visit.

Ramaphosa noted that signing agreements did not always require specific individuals, as delegation was a common practice. This clarification by the President helps alleviate concerns and reaffirms Mantashe’s commitment to government policies.

Collaboration with the Netherlands and Denmark

The MOU that was signed in Minister Mantashe’s absence aimed to secure $1 billion of green hydrogen funds in South Africa, with backing from the Netherlands.

State-backed firms, including Climate Fund Managers (owned by the Netherlands development bank FMO) and Invest International, were identified as key participants in running and financing these initiatives. The aim is to accelerate the country’s transition to a greener and more sustainable energy future.

🟥WATCH🟥**ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa in conversation with members of the media. ** ## Ramaphosa Praises Minister #Mantashe for Commitment to Government Policy##

President Cyril Ramaphosa has commended Minister Gwede Mantashe for his unwavering commitment to the… pic.twitter.com/1v44FpgQUk

— Central News (@centralnewsza) July 9, 2023

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