Mashatile: Plans are in place to ensure that load shedding is ended this year

JOHANNESBURG - Deputy President Paul Mashatile insisted load shedding would come to an end in 2024 - but most definitely not before the country held its seventh democratic elections.

Mashatile delivered a public lecture at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) to mark 30 years of democracy.

He told guests that strides were being made in addressing load shedding, enhancing security in the country, as well as improving the logistics system and the ports and rail networks.

Just Tuesday morning, Minister of Electricity Kgosientso Ramokgopa announced that the reduced levels of power outages were due to Eskom having ramped up planned maintenance and good management.

It's been at least 13 days without the rolling power cuts.

Mashatile said progress in dealing with the energy crisis was real.

"I would like to assure you ladies and gentlemen, that plans are in place nationally to ensure that load shedding is ended this year. I know you don't believe me. Professor Mpedi, they think I am electioneering. No, it is true, that's why I am saying it will end this year."

Mashatile said government was also aware that it must strengthen the social compact, working together with different sectors of society to overcome some of the country's obstacles.

He also shared his thoughts on the upcoming national and provincial elections.

"As a nation, we are looking forward to the general election on the 29th of May 2024. Given that many have registered political parties and are aspiring to serve in Parliament and legislatures, I believe many will agree that this election will or is arguably the most important and the most exciting."