Matatiele electrification agenda attracts Minister Radebe

The Minister of Energy, Minister Jeff Radebe joined by Matatiele local municipality mayor, Cllr Momelezi Mbedla conducted a symbolic electrification switch-on at Chibini village in ward 5 on Friday the 26th of April 2019. This, as a way of showcasing the life changing programme that has brought light to the communities of wards 5 and 9.

The municipality through the national department of Energy has at these two wards, connected 1 273 households to the national electrification grid.

The department of Energy has programmes of mixed electricity access in Matatiele local municipality, that is informed by rolling out grid and non-grid electrification programmes. The aim is to ensure that the strategy that was approved by Cabinet in June 2013 comes to effect. The strategy acclaims that 90% electricity access will be achieved by grid and non-grid technology respectively. In an effort to address challenges of insufficient capacity, the department of Energy has in the past three years focused its funding to address Matatiele local municipality backlog.

Addressing the communities, Minister Radebe indicated that his Department through INEP will continue to allocate and transfer funds to Matatiele local municipality for the implementation of electrification projects. This, in order to assist the municipality to achieve universal access as well as chasing growth.

Honourable Radebe further expressed that the Eastern Cape INEP Regional Office, with the support of the Head Office will always provide support to Matatiele local municipality.

On the day, political principals visited Mokoena family at Chibini village and provided them with electric appliances and groceries. 

The Minister also used this opportunity to conduct inspection of electrification programme and stakeholder engagement process on energy related issues.

Speaking on behalf of the community members, Mme Morena Baleni extended a word of appreciation to government for responding to their basic needs. “We are now able to watch news from the comfort of our homes, and our kids can expand their knowledge in today’s technology”, expressed Mme Baleni.

The day would not be a success without providing government services to the people.  SASSA: the agency registered about 40 people onto their system on the day. Ten new applications on various grants were received. Department of health, Maluti Sub – District: Head count, 20. Dental screening to 15 people and further provided tooth paste and tooth brushes (to encourage hygiene). The department rendered these services: HCT, HIV testing, Diabetes, and other health related services. Social Development assisted 15 people.

Department of Home Affairs: managed to assist 30 people who were enquiring about Home Affairs services. Indeed, together we move Matatiele forward.