Protesters demand end to power cuts and sewage spills

Around 100 protesters gathered at Eskom offices in Khayelitsha, Cape Town, and later marched to municipal offices on Tuesday, demanding improved electricity supply and cleaner streets. The demonstration was organized by Cry of the Xcluded and Amadoda Qotho. Protesters sang fight songs and held signs reading "We want affordable, reliable electricity" and "We demand service delivery."

The group complained about power outages, exposed transformers, faulty prepaid meters, and delayed repairs. Thandokazi Manisi, a member of Cry of the Xcluded, stated that many residents had been without electricity for months or weeks, with some experiencing the issue for years. She also mentioned the residents' complaints regarding Eskom's lack of swift responses, often providing only reference numbers and failing to send technicians.

Manisi recounted how her disabled neighbor, who walks to Eskom daily, uses R20 daily from neighbors to power his house.

Bongeka Moshani recounted a recent incident where thieves cut wires transmitting electricity to her home in Makhaza, forcing her to use paraffin for cooking and boiling water. She expressed concern that live wires pose a threat to children. Mohale Makeke, an Eskom Khayelitsha sector manager, acknowledged past security issues but assured that improved escort measures are now in place. Makeke reported a decrease in open work orders from 6,000 in July to nearly 500, claiming significant progress has been made.

If Eskom does not respond by October 21, the organizers plan to march to the Bellville office and the Khayelitsha depot, submitting complaints to the National Energy Regulator and the Public Protector. Protesters also marched to the City of Cape Town’s Subcouncil 10 offices, demanding the repair of damaged drains, removal of sewage, installation of streetlights, skills training for youth, and fixing potholes.

If the City fails to address these issues by October 31, the protesters threaten to march to the Civic Centre and approach the South African Human Rights Commission and the Public Protector. Councillor Delmaine Cottee, chairperson of Subcouncil 10, promised to forward the memorandum to City departments and discuss their responses with the protesters.