POLOKWANE – The Provincial Command Council on Covid-19 said everybody who works in the mines must be screened and tested, and have compulsory quarantine, or the said mine plant should be closed with immediate effect.
Limpopo Premier Stan Mathabatha said Sekhukhune District Municipality has become the new epicenter because of the high infection rate which almost doubled in one week.
“We are concerned about Sekhukhune and have sent a high level medical team including the Cuban cadres to monitor the area closely.”
To date, Sekhukhune has 55 active cases from the mines.
Stan Mathabatha Limpopo Premier
“After our meeting with the Department of Minerals and Energy (DMRE) Minister, Gwede Mantatshe, the mining houses and the mining regulatory regime last Sunday, it became apparent that we have a lot of ground to cover if we want to save the lives of our people.
“A technical team comprising the MECs for Health, LEDET, Public Works, Transport, Coghsta, Social Development Treasury, Education, the director generals, and respective HODs, DMRE and the CEOs of Mining houses has been formed and meets every Thursday to map the way forward,” revealed Mathabatha who is the chairperson of the Council.
Marula Platinum Mine recorded 19 Covid-19 cases last week.
The Provincial infection rate has peaked up to 94 by last night, still with three deaths so far.
Sekhukhune, Capricorn and Waterberg Districts remain highest in numbers of infections .
55 miners tested positive for Covid-19 in Tubatse.
The total tests done so far in the Province are at 10 600 whereas screening is at more than 4million up to now.
“We are concerned about Sekhukhune and have sent a high level medical team including the Cuban cadres to monitor the area closely.”
He said the province is still a water scarce area, and there is continuous engagement with the Department of Water Affairs and Sanitation to speed up the supply of tankers and borehole rigging.
Mathabatha concluded by revealing that the Province will be ready to move to Level 3 come June 1.
