Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan has announced the appointment of an interim board of directors for the national carrier, South African Airways (SAA).
Former Tourism Minister Derek Hanekom has been appointed as the interim non-executive director and chairperson of the carrier.
Professor John Lamola, who was the carrier’s chairperson, will remain as an interim non-executive director and continue as interim chief executive officer.
Gordhan made the announcement of the appointments in a statement on Monday.
The additional board appointments are Fathima Gany, Fundi Sithebe, Mahlubi Mazwi, Advocate Johannes Weapond, Clarissa Appana, and Dumisani Sangweni.
Gordhan said the appointment of the board underscores the government's unwavering commitment to the success and stability of the airline.
"Their exceptional experience and expertise will guide the airline towards a prosperous future in collaboration with the Takatso Consortium," Gordhan said.
"We recognise the challenges SAA has faced in the past and the importance of learning from those experiences to ensure the airline's future success.
“The government is resolute in demonstrating our dedication to restructuring SAA and revitalising state-owned enterprises, as part of our broader commitment to promoting economic growth and development," he said.
Gordhan said that to support SAA in achieving its goals, the government had put strategies and plans in place that align with its vision and objectives.
The primary focus areas of the interim board include providing strategic leadership to the transitional management team and overseeing the integration of the strategic equity partner, Takatso Consortium.
The consortium will acquire a 51% majority stake in SAA, after buying the airline with a commitment, as part of the deal, to invest R3 billion in the national carrier.
The deal is currently undergoing regulatory review. Source: SAnews.gov.za
