Hon Speaker, on 17 August this year the Orange Farm Electricity Forum held a leadership workshop with local community leaders to address challenges of electricity supply, with particular focus on how to co-operate in addressing such problems.
At the workshop, Eskom explained to local leaders how electricity is supplied and the impact of illegal connections, including tampering with meters, and saving electricity. Participants appreciated such inputs and committed to do their best to mobilise the rest of the community to work closely with Eskom on how to address local challenges regarding electricity. It was quite clear to them that only a win-win situation will improve the supply of electricity with minimal interruptions. It was agreed to continue with the workshops at ward level so that more residents could benefit.
Historically, the area has been riddled with tensions and strife on, amongst other things, the supply of electricity, but recently the situation has turned around for the better. The ANC has consistently played a strong role in monitoring the response of the state-owned enterprises to economic transformation and social development, hence the success of the workshop. The ANC-led government, through its state-owned companies, will follow suit and work together with the communities for a better life for all.
Iyabulela ilali. [I thank you].