Trade minister Parks Tau tests positive for Covid-19, self-isolates ahead of business forum

Trade Minister Parks Tau has tested positive for Covid-19, his office confirmed in a statement that said he is “in good spirits” and currently in self-isolation.

Diagnosis confirmed, contacts urged to test

The minister’s office issued a statement confirming the positive test and advising that

“Minister Tau would like to encourage those who have been in contact with him recently to get tested and exercise precautionary measures,”

according to the statement. A tweet from Tau’s verified account on 3 June 2026 referenced the announcement.

Will miss bilateral business forum in Midrand

Tau’s positive test means he will not attend the bilateral business forum hosted by South Africa at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, Gauteng, on Thursday. The forum is scheduled to feature addresses from President Cyril Ramaphosa and Kenyan President William Ruto.

Forum focus and Tau’s prior comments

The forum focuses on partnerships in finance, technology, agriculture and infrastructure, and aims to balance trade and utilise the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Tau previously said the business forum would focus on deepening economic cooperation, facilitating business partnerships, and exploring strategies to unlock the full potential of trade and investment between the two countries.

On trade diversification and AfCFTA

Tau said:

“South Africa and Kenya recognise the importance of trade development and trade diversification for overall economic growth and prosperity. The diversification of exports is crucial for balanced economic development and is vital to guaranteeing the long-term sustainability and future economic welfare of the two countries,”

and that both countries are well-positioned to harness the AfCFTA for improved trade growth, complementary regional gateways, and job-creating investments that could drive continental integration.

Trade figures between South Africa and Kenya

The article reports that total trade between South Africa and Kenya rose from R9.3 billion in 2016 to R10.5 billion in 2025, registering an average growth rate of 3.5% over the period.