“Whatever we start, we must finish it. Come 30 June 2027, people of Mafube Local Municipality must be connected.”

This was the firm message from the Fezile Dabi District Municipality Acting Municipal Manager, Mr Abram Mgcina, during an engagement with service providers and consultants responsible for implementing projects under the Integrated National Electrification Programme (INEP) 2026/27, on 9 September 2026.

He stressed that the priority is not simply to complete projects quickly, but to ensure that they are thoroughly implemented, safely executed and completed to the required standard. Technical challenges and bottlenecks were placed under the spotlight, with stakeholders urged to work together to resolve issues and prevent unnecessary delays. Service providers and consultants briefed the Acting MM on progress made, outstanding activities and the challenges requiring attention as the projects move towards completion.

The meeting agreed on an action list with timelines and responsible persons, which will serve as the basis for driving the work forward. A working committee has also been established and will meet monthly to track progress and ensure that agreed actions are followed through.

Importantly, future meetings will take place on site, to allow challenges to be identified and addressed directly where the work is taking place.

The projects include:

Electrification of 330 households in Namahadi New Extension (P2)

Upgrading of the 11kV switchgear at Villiers Main Substation

Construction of a 42km MV line from Villiers Main Substation to Cornelia

Electrification of 407 households in Cornelia