Electricity ‘war’ in townships

THE residents of Siteneni in Mfuleni blame the illegal electrical connections in the neighbouring informal settlement, Mbacwini, for frequent power outages in the area.

The two areas are not at peace, said Mbacwini community leader Luvuyo Nontshuda.

“We are at war in this community. Last night (Wednesday), there was a huge quarrel when the power went off, we gathered and called Thembisile Batembu, our ward councillor, to help us resolve this fight,” he said.

“Residents from Siteneni houses were fuming, blaming us for the blackout.

“We were told in a meeting at the Cape Town Civic Centre, towards the end of the year, that we would never have electricity because we live under the main lines.”

Ncumisa Mzamo added: “We understand that (illegal connections) is wrong, but we want electricity too; the municipality does not take us serious in this area.”

Nothemba Mfuleni, from Siteni, said: “It has been four days now that we are without electricity because of these people from Mbacwini area.

“My electrical appliances are burnt by this electricity; because of this illegal connection, our safety is at risk here.

“When we talk to them, they threaten to kill us.”

Tamara Gantsho said it was clear they did not want to use candles, because they were more risky.

“When this electricity breaks, we hear a shocking and scary blast but if it was a candle, we would have been burnt by now,” Gantsho added.

Thembisile Batembu, the ward councillor for Mfuleni, said: “I have asked the municipality to help us with installing electricity in the Mbacwini informal settlement.

“I will ensure that it is soon solved, and I urge residents not to engage in any violent actions.”