By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Minister of Health Dr Zweli Mkhize said in a statement that the cumulative number of COVID-19 cases for South Africa is 1 528 414.
This an increase 1541 new cases identified in the last 24 hours and the cumulative total of tests conducted is 9 426 589 with 32 862 tests completed since the last report.
Mkhize said a further 82 more COVID-19 related deaths were reported: Eastern Cape 1, Free State 9, Gauteng 7, Kwa-Zulu Natal 9, Limpopo 0, Mpumalanga 3, North West 42, Northern Cape 0 and Western Cape 11 which brings the total to 51 261 deaths.
The minister added that the cumulative recoveries today stand at 1 452 988 representing a recovery rate of 95%.
Vaccination Rollout
The number of health care workers vaccinated under the Sisonke Protocol is 145 544 as at 18.30 13 March 2021.
Meanwhile Mkhize has paid tribute to King Goodwill Zwelithini saying he was a great ambassador for the country, a peacemaker and a champion of the poor.
Mkhize said on Saturday the king promoted a number of projects to uplift the poor.
He said the late king was involved in projects related to the fight against HIV/Aids and was held in high regard and loved by many people. He also described him as a selfless leader who dedicated his life to the people.
The minister said he was saddened when he heard of the king’s passing. “His Majesty was a great ambassador for our country, who used the Royal House to facilitate investment in agriculture, education and socio-economic development. He believed in community self-reliance in fighting poverty and supported government service delivery programmes, particularly the protection of the environment,” said Mkhize.
“He was a great champion for the poor and underprivileged, especially promoting development in rural areas,” he said.
“He believed in peace and campaigned successfully to end political violence, even as the royal family suffered its own casualties, “said Mkhize.
The King was also involved in projects related to HIV/Aids.
He described him as a selfless leader who dedicated his life to the service of humanity.