Gwede Mantashe: I’m very comfortable with Electricity Minister plan

Mineral Resources and Energy Minister Gwede Mantashe has reiterated that he’s not “uncomfortable” with a Minister of Electricity and welcomes the move.

He said he sees no problem with an additional ministry to solely focus only on load shedding while he and the Public Enterprises Minister deal with other pressing matters in their departments.

Mantashe was briefing parliament on Friday about the Independent Power Producers (IPPs) programme and its role in ensuring energy security.

Mantashe said the soon-to-be-appointed Minister of Electricity will be essential in resolving load shedding and focusing on Eskom’s operations.

He also addressed claims that he was not entirely happy about the new arrangement.

“I’m quite keen to see the Minister of Electricity. And many people wanted me to be uncomfortable with it, I’m not uncomfortable with that. I’m very comfortable, but I want that minister to focus on load shedding. And to me, load shedding will be focussing on optimal operation of the current power stations.”

Mantashe also faced questions from MPs regarding the role of IPPs as the country tries to address its worst-ever power cut crisis.

The Minister said it’s misleading to claim that IPPs are set up to resolve load shedding, saying they’re only able to effectively help stabilise the grid in the long term.

-EWN

In other news – Tipcee speaks on rumours she’s broke after allegedly dumping DJ Tira

South African singer Tipcee has responded to rumours of being down and out telling a local publication that the rumours are false. Following a report from ZiMoja, Tipcee started trending with sources alleging that she is broke after leaving Tira’s Afrotainment. The dancer said they are nothing but false rumours and that she is still signed to Tira’s label.

Speaking to the online publication, Tipcee said, “No it’s not true, and I’m dropping a single soon, and then an EP. The rumours have been trending since yesterday. There was this one friend of mine who was stirring up trouble.” Learn More