The Ditsobotla Local Municipality, located in Lichtenburg, North West, has taken the drastic step of cutting electricity supply to a host of local businesses, government offices, and schools, citing non-payment of electricity debts. This action comes amid the municipality’s own financial turmoil, bearing a staggering R1.4 billion debt to Eskom, the national power utility.
According to Ntesang Moagi, the Acting Chief Financial Officer of the municipality, several stakeholders were issued a 14-day notice prior to the cuts. Moagi expressed frustration over the continuous lack of engagement from various government departments, all of which are also indebted to the municipality.
“We have been communicating with them, having several meetings and asking the province to intervene but they are just not coming to the party,” said Moagi. “On Monday, during our management meeting, we decided that we could no longer maintain the status quo. Many of these departments have not been paying for years, which is disheartening. They receive 100% of their income from grants, whereas we rely on collecting 70% of ours. As a result, we find ourselves unable to pay our creditors.”
Moagi’s statements reflect a growing concern over financial mismanagement and an inability to collect debts, particularly from entities placed within the realm of government. He confirmed that power will not be restored to the affected parties until their debts are settled. This ultimatum serves as both a warning and a necessary measure as the municipality grapples with severe financial constraints.
The situation is not only limited to electricity concerns. Earlier in March, SABC News highlighted the municipality’s ongoing struggle with water shortages, which forced residents of Coligny, Blydeville, and Boikhutso to trek long distances, often using wheelbarrows to access water for daily needs. This dire scenario has raised alarm over both the reliability and safety of the water being collected, exacerbating the community’s woes.
With rising tensions stemming from repeated power outages and water shortages, the residents of Ditsobotla are left to wonder what lies ahead. Political instability further complicates an already challenging situation, which continues to deteriorate and places immense pressure on local leaders to find a sustainable solution to these critical service delivery issues.