Evaton residents’ Eskom concerns to be followed by action, says Emfuleni leadership

Emfuleni residents’ calls for action over electricity challenges are set to be followed by a visit to Evaton on Thursday, where municipal leadership says it will begin implementing measures raised during a recent Imbizo.

The leadership said residents used the Imbizo to raise concerns about electricity supply and gave a clear instruction to use the authority entrusted to them to hold Eskom accountable.

“They did not simply give us their stories. They gave us a clear instruction: use the power and authority they entrusted to us to hold Eskom to account and make it do what it was created to do — keep the lights on,” the leadership said.

According to the statement, Thursday’s visit will focus on action rather than further consultations.

“We return to Evaton not to talk, but with action. We roll up our sleeves. We move from hearing the people to acting on their mandate,” it said.

The leadership said it would launch measures requested by residents and begin work aimed at addressing their concerns.

The move comes amid ongoing electricity challenges in parts of Emfuleni, with the municipality having previously engaged Eskom over issues including load reduction and electricity supply.

The leadership said the Imbizo provided an opportunity for residents to communicate their concerns directly and for authorities to respond.

“Because when the people speak, leadership must listen. And when the mandate is given, the work must begin,” it said.

The Thursday programme is expected to mark the start of the implementation of the measures discussed during the Imbizo.

“Tomorrow, in Evaton, we answer the call,” the statement said. “Emfuleni rises.”