Lerato Mailoane
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, accompanied by power utility Eskom, brought renewed hope to the Westrand communities of Kagiso, Munsieville, and Swaneville as he fulfilled his promise to switch on transformers after a challenging one-year and eight months wait.
Despite Sunday’s downpour, the streets of Kagiso echoed with songs of joy as the premier and his entourage embarked on the Transformer Replacement Programme.
Their first stop, at 92-year-old Gogo Nompumelelo Matta-Martin’s home in Kagiso, held a special moment as the Premier expressed his condolences for her recent loss.
Apologising for not being there a day earlier, Premier Lesufi demonstrated compassion and solidarity.
“I would like to apologise to you, mama, for not being here a day earlier,” said Lesufi.
Gogo Matta-Martin, grateful for the restored power, thanked the Premier and his team for keeping their promise.
Premier Lesufi oversaw the switch-on of five transformers as part of the provincial government and Eskom’s collaborative initiative launched in October.
The Transformer Replacement Programme aims to address the challenges many townships face in Gauteng, with the Premier pledging to replace 14 transformers in Kagiso by Christmas.
During his door-to-door visits, Premier Lesufi acknowledged the reconnection challenges still faced by residents, emphasising his commitment to resolving these issues.
Expressing his deep concern for the community’s struggles, he also shared his excitement over the positive impact of their interventions.
“I am deeply hurt that our people have to go through the lack of electricity, but I am also excited our interventions are yielding results; I am happy when our people are happy,” said Lesufi.
In Munsieville, resident Johannes Skosana, initially sceptical, found relief and gratitude as his electricity was finally restored. Skosana, appreciating the government’s efforts, expressed his newfound ability to buy food in bulk for the upcoming Christmas festivities.
“I am so relieved to have my electricity back finally. It’s been a long year without electricity,” said Skosana.
With 11 out of 14 transformers now switched on in Kagiso, Premier Lesufi’s hands-on approach and swift response have brought tangible relief to the communities, marking a significant step in addressing the challenges of power restoration.
SOURCED FROM THE GPG WEBSITE.
