15 April 2011 [Photos] The Executive Mayor of Emfuleni Local Municipality Councillor Assistance Mshudulu today (Friday the 15th) officially switched on electricity to households at Tshepong Township.

More than 900 houses have been electrified through the 25 million rand project, which was jointly financed by the Emfuleni Local Municipality (ELM) and the Department of Energy (DoE). The project included among others, the upgrading of Ironside substation, the building of a new substation at Tshepong Township, installation of seven high masts lights and over 900 prepaid meters and ready boards.

Speaking to the beneficiaries at Tshepong this morning, Executive Mayor Mshudulu said “the success of the project was made possible by the community’s cooperation and patience. I want to thank you for believing in your government when it made the promise that you will get electricity. I think other communities should take a leaf from you when it comes to patience and trust. You have demonstrated to us that you have trust in the government of the day that you elected to power.”

The Mayor added that the electricity project is not the last for residents of Tshepong.

“I am aware that you still need other services like roads, clinic and shops. We will ensure that those services are delivered to you,” he said to the applause of the crowd.

The project also benefited the community with the transfer of skills which was one of the requirements as part of empowering the community. Twenty five people were employed as part of the Expanded Public Works programme. Five of them acquired trade skills by being part of a team that built the substation and did the electrification of houses.

Written by Klaas Mofomme