The South African leader Cyril Ramaphosa has tested positive for COVID-19, two weeks after meeting with his counterpart in Nigeria.
President Ramaphosa’s visit to Nigeria took place on a day Nigeria confirmed three cases of the new strain of the coronavirus, omicron. On December 1, President Muhammadu Buhari welcomed Ramaphosa to Nigeria for the 10th Session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission.
”Despite the scare generated by the new COVID-19 variant, we have been able to hold successful meetings, while observing strict COVID-19 protocols, through fraternal cooperation and understanding,” a presidential office statement said.
After meeting with Ramaphosa, the Nigerian president subsequently proceeded on a trip to the UAE for Dubai EXPO 2020 while Ramaphosa headed for neighbouring West African nations and successfully ended his trip to West Africa five days ago.
As the officials say, Cyril Ramaphosa and the delegation returned to South Africa on Wednesday, after obtaining negative test results. “The president also tested negative on his return to Johannesburg on 8 December,” the statement added.
Although fully vaccinated, South African president reportedly started feeling sick after attending the memorial service for former deputy president F W de Klerk in Cape Town.
Commenting on the health troubles, President Ramaphosa said that his own infection served as a warning to all citizens of the importance of getting vaccinated and remaining vigilant against exposure.
“Vaccination remains the best protection against severe illness and hospitalization,” the presidential statement said.
President Ramaphsa also warned that people who have had contact with him today are advised to watch for symptoms or to have themselves tested.
