Upfront withRefilwe Moloto

Minister of Energy Jeff Radebe says the discovery of gas off the Southern Cape coast is a 'game changer'.

The French energy company Total announced on Thursday, the discovery of a 'significant' gas condensate which could be around one billion barrels of global resources, gas and condensate light oil.

Speaking to Joanne Joseph ahead of the 2019 State of the Nation Address (Sona) on Thursday, Radebe says the discovery will help address the triple challenge of unemployment, poverty and inequality.

It's going to be a game changer. As you know South Africa has not been endowed with liquid petroleum in our country. We believe that with this discovery, its exploitation for the benefit of the people of South Africa and the region occurs well, especially when the president of the country is making his State of the Nation Address,I think this has been a very good omen.

— Jeff Radebe, Minister of Energy

This much awaited discovery will bring about a lot of benefits for the people of South Africa. As you know the fuel price has been a real thorn in the flesh of many South Africans. Now with this discovery, it will play a significant role in reducing the cost of fuel in South Africa, but more than that, the cost of doing business in our country.

— Jeff Radebe, Minister of Energy

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This article first appeared on 702 : [LISTEN] Total South Africa's gas discovery a game changer - Jeff Radebe