Minister Ramokgopa and Eskom leadership to unpack South Africa’s energy security journey at Unisa SLB Distinction Dialogue
Date: Thursday, 13 August 2026
Time: 11:00 – 14:00
Venue: UNISA Graduate School of Business Leadership (SBL), Midrand
Format: Hybrid — In-person and Livestream
South Africa’s energy landscape has undergone a significant shift. After years of daily load shedding and a grid under immense pressure, the country has now recorded over 450 consecutive days without load shedding.
The UNISA Graduate School of Business Leadership, in partnership with the Department of Electricity and Energy and Eskom, is hosting a high-level Distinction Dialogue to unpack the factors behind this turnaround and the strategic path toward sustained energy security.
Theme “Turnaround strategy: Lessons in Keeping the Lights On. Generation recovery and the energy action plan.”
Why this matters now
Three years ago, the national energy sector was defined by crisis:
Daily load shedding crippling households and the economy.
Energy Availability Factor (EAF) stuck at ~55%.
Unplanned outages above 16 GW.
* Diesel reliance costing taxpayers over R29 billion.
Today, the operational picture has improved significantly:
- 450+ days without load shedding.
- EAF consistently above 67%, with multiple days reaching 70%+ and 80%+.
- Unplanned outages reduced to ~10 GW, with some days dropping below 4 GW.
- Diesel spend cut by 78%—saving R23 billion—with usage down 82% year-on-year.
- Secured the first credit rating upgrade in more than a decade.
This dialogue will go beyond the headlines, featuring a frank discussion on the reforms, risks, and investments required to lock in long-term energy security.
Featured Speakers
- Welcome: Prof Walter Matli, UNISA SBL
- Setting the Scene: Prof OM Ledimo, UNISA SBL
Panel Discussion:
- Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, Minister of Electricity and Energy
- Dr. Mteto Nyati, Board Chairperson, Eskom
- Mr. Dan Marokane, Group Chief Executive, Eskom
- Vote of Thanks: Prof Boitumelo Senokoane, UNISA
The panel will take questions from the floor and attending media.
Media Arrangements
- Livestream: UNISA YouTube & SBL platforms.
- In-person Accreditation: Required for attendance
- Interviews: Interview opportunities with speakers will be available on request.
Media Enquiries and Media Attendance RSVP: Tsakane Khambane on 082 084 5566/ Tsakane.Khambane@dee.gov.za
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