Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi spearheaded the Operation Khanyisa iGauteng initiative in Stretford, Lakeside and Orange Farm on Tuesday, 23 July.
Operation Khanyisa iGauteng is part of the Gauteng Energy Response Plan in partnership with Eskom. The initiative aims to replace and install transformers in underserved communities. Premier Lesufi oversaw the switch-on, engaged with community members, and encouraged them to look after the infrastructure.
Residents of Stretford sang in joyful praise for the Premier as it has been over a year without electricity.An older woman thanked the Premier, saying electricity restored their community’s dignity. In Orange Farm Extensions 7 and 8, residents celebrated the return of electricity after more than five years of darkness. Premier Lesufi conducted a walkabout, visiting homes to ensure the successful restoration of power.The premier then proceeded to Lakeside Extension 5, which had been without electricity for four years.
He urged the community to maintain the newly installed transformer. Johannes Radebe, a resident of Lakeside Extension 1, expressed his delight, noting the relief it brought after years without power.”The cost of living is high, and with a high unemployment rate, it was unbearable to live without electricity for so long,” said Johannes.
The Gauteng Provincial Government remains committed to the Operation Khanyisa iGauteng program and plans to extend its benefits to other communities in need.
