Eskom spokesperson Sikhonathi Mantshantsha is leaving the power utility

Eskom has announced that spokesperson Sikhonathi Mantshantsha is leaving the struggling power utility and his last day is February 28.

Mantshantsha joined the power generator in the last three years and he signed a fixed-term contract with the state-owned company.

“Sikhonathi has been the catalyst in Eskom improving transparency and frequency of information sharing, dealing with several difficult media engagements during his tenure,” said Eskom Interim Group Chief Executive Calib Cassim.

“Eskom is grateful for his contribution to our organisation, and we wish him well during his next journey.

“Over the course of three years, Mantshantsha helped improve Eskom’s public image by driving honest and frank communication in the media domain on Eskom’s real position during a difficult period characterised by operating difficulties and increased load shedding.

“This has seen Eskom become more accountable, agile, and transparent in its external positioning while increasing its share of voice with regular executive team briefings to the public on key developments.

“Sikonathi has been the catalyst in Eskom improving transparency and frequency of information sharing, dealing with several difficult media engagements during his tenure.”

Speaking to SAfm on Tuesday morning, the former journalist for Business Day said his departure cannot be linked with that of the CEO Andre De Ruyter.

De Ruyter, who was sent packing a month ahead of schedule after he gave an explosive interview is leaving the power company in the midst of criticism from government officials and the ruling ANC.

This emanates from his accusations against undisclosed ministers of benefiting from corruption at Eskom, among other claims.

Eskom interim group chief executive Calib Cassim, who was appointed last week, said Mantshantsha had agreed to join Eskom as spokesperson to lead the media desk during a difficult period in which the organisation needed to restore trust and credibility in its dealings with the public and stakeholders.

Meanwhile, BusinessTech Africa understands that Daphne Mokwena will lead the media desk team in the interim and act as Eskom group spokesperson with immediate effect while the recruitment process for a permanent spokesperson is underway.

“Mokwena is currently the senior manager for the retail centre of excellence and has been in the employ of Eskom for 21 years.”

“Among others, Mokwena has served as the Gauteng customer services senior manager and Gauteng distribution spokesperson dealing with challenging issues such as Soweto debt.”