Chairperson, the NFP enters into this debate with the understanding that access to electricity is a basic human right, like all other basic human rights, which include housing, water and sanitation. Therefore, as the NFP we feel that for one to have access to electricity, there should be co-ordinated and well-integrated service delivery.
It is in this light that the NFP advocates the revamping of slums and hostels to family units with electricity, water and sanitation. It is also in this light that the NFP will push vigorously for slum clearance so that those people's dignity is restored and that they get decent housing, water and electricity.
The NFP welcomes and supports the budget of R7,4 billion for this financial year. It is therefore encouraging to hear that the Department of Energy will strive towards increasing access to electricity with an additional 265 000 grid installations and 15 000 nongrid connections. Most people in rural areas and townships, particularly, have been crying for electricity for years. The Department of Energy still has to tighten measures aimed at monitoring the pace of connecting electricity or installations of solar water heating units, especially, as I have said, in rural areas and townships.
Kubuhlungu kabi ukuzwa ukuthi ugesi uphelile ikakhulukazi ngezikhathi zasebusika lapho abantu bewudinga khona kakhulu. [Power cuts cause huge problems, especially in winter when there is a high demand for electricity.]
Usually the pace is very slow. It takes ages for installations to occur after the marking of houses. I know that this needs access to water. Strong ties should be forged with the Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs in order for people to have access to electricity. Of course, we need to monitor Eskom as well, in order for us to know exactly to which department it reports - whether it is to the Department of Public Enterprises or the Department of Energy.
Having said that, and in conclusion, I must say that we also need to educate people to get engaged in engineering services, electrical engineering, nuclear energy, and all other forms of fuel and gas in order for us to have a pool of skills.
Finally, I must say that we need to ensure that we engage a lot of black people in the business of energy, gas, and fuel. This sector has been the monopoly of a few individuals for years. Therefore, as the NFP, we will plead for more black people to get involved in the business of energy, gas and fuel. Thank you. [Applause.]