PIETERMARITZBURG – Minister in the Presidency for Electricity, Dr. Kgosientso Ramokgopa, is set to receive the first consignment of energy equipment donated by the People’s Republic of China. The handover ceremony is scheduled to take place in Pietermaritzburg on Thursday. This donation is a part of the Technical Assistance Programme established during the state visit of China’s Head of State to South Africa in August 2023. According to the Presidency, the initial shipment arriving in South Africa includes 450 gasoline generators, which will be distributed to various public service facilities nationwide.
According to South African Government News Agency, The generators are intended to serve as backup power sources to mitigate the impacts of load shedding on service delivery in clinics, schools, and courts. This assistance comes as the South African government continues to implement its Energy Action Plan, aiming to end load shedding and achieve sustainable energy security in the country.
During an earlier state visit led by Chinese President Xi Jinping, President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed gratitude for China’s support in addressing South Africa’s energy challenges. The emergency power equipment donation, valued at R167 million, and an additional development assistance grant of approximately R500 million underscore China’s commitment to aiding South Africa’s energy sector. President Ramaphosa highlighted the significance of energy cooperation with China, especially considering both countries’ commitments to low-carbon, climate-resilient development.
This bilateral engagement marks a critical step in strengthening South Africa’s energy infrastructure and resilience, reflecting the growing collaboration between the two nations in addressing global environmental and energy challenges.