Electricity and Energy Minister Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa has appointed Ria Govender as acting chairperson of the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa), from June 15 until the recruitment and appointment process for a permanent appointee is finalised.
Govender’s appointment follows the resignation of Thembani Bukula as part-time Regulator Member and chairperson of Nersa, effective June 15, owing to health reasons.
Govender became a part-time Regulator Member and deputy chairperson of Nersa on December 15, 2025.
She has more than 29 years of policy, legal and regulatory experience in the electricity industry.
Her roles have included senior government official, legal adviser, corporate counsel, senior transaction adviser, public-private partnership adviser and policy and institutional adviser.
