Power for Brackenhill a great relief
Theresa Janklaas, Brackenhill:
After many years of living without electricity, the Brackenhill community switched on lights last year on 2 December.
It is indeed difficult to explain – it is a mixture of thankfulness, happiness, gratitude, appreciation and, of course, the emotions attached.
The electricity will make life easier for us. The collecting of firewood will gradually reduce now. The use of candles and paraffin lamps will also reduce. It will be wise to keep them for emergency lighting.
The luxury of having electricity will save time and money. For the first time, we will have electricity 24/7 – indeed a huge benefit and life-changing. You have access to electricity at any given time. Wow – no more trouble with charging your cellphone, to do away with the high running cost of generators will be a big relieve. Because of the “silent” electricity the noise levels, perhaps, will also reduce.
Living without electricity was quite challenging over the years. We have had electrification network on our east and west end, so it was difficult to understand that it was not available to us. Collecting firewood, studying and homework by candlelight, standing up well in advance to make boiling water etc. and hand-washing our clothes were indeed challenging.
One can learn from the community, who really showed patience and character over the years. Those who believe in the leadership with their support and trust, their bravery is appreciated.
Having no access to electricity was not a road of sunshine and roses. It was part and parcel of the “struggle” to fight for basic needs. So the struggles and fights paid off, beneficial for us. The electricity is the result of hard work and sacrifice.
The access to electricity will change our livelihood for the better. It is indeed the beginning of great things for Brackenhill. A new season has started. Yes, the best is yet to come.
We will show our appreciation by looking after our electricity infrastructure. We will be good Eskom ambassadors and will do our bit to use electricity safely and efficiently.