The Deputy Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Nkosi Phathekile Holomisa, is self-isolating at his home after he tested positive for Covid-19, the government announced on Saturday afternoon.

According to a statement, Cabinet spokesperson Phumla Williams said the deputy minister is taking the necessary precautions while his direct contacts are being traced.

Minister in the Presidency Jackson Mthembu said the government wished Holomisa a speedy recovery.

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"Nkosi Holomisa has our full support and we are looking forward to his full recovery in order for him to continue serving the people of South Africa with great valour and dedication," Mthembu said in a statement.

Williams said that the government continues to urge South Africans to take precautions and adhere to preventative measures, such as wearing a mask, physical distancing, regularly and thoroughly cleaning one's hands with soap, or a sanitiser that contains 70% alcohol, and to avoid crowded places.