Bitou Municipality Ramps Up Electrification Projects to Improve Lives and Safety

In a significant advancement for the residents of Bitou, the municipality, under the direction of Executive Mayor Jessica Kamkam, has begun intensifying efforts towards bettering the quality of life for its citizens, specifically by expanding access to electricity in informal settlements. As a part of their sustained commitment to improving service delivery, the electrification of 104 new homes in the Qolweni Informal Settlement has commenced. Notably, the appointed contractor has also been tasked to upgrade 180 existing meters in the area.

Incidents of fires in these vulnerable communities have been an impetus for this drive, as Mayor Kamkam pointed out that providing stable and safe electricity connections directly contributes to reducing such dangers. The municipality is taking action beyond prevention, showing a dedication to comprehensive community development. Back in August, a successful initiative had already seen 200 households in Bossesgif Informal Settlement become actively connected to the grid, signifying proactive steps towards community empowerment and development in Bitou.

Not only are these efforts expected to ameliorate living conditions by providing reliable power, but they also represent a strategic maneuver to improve the municipality's revenue collection potential. Bitou Acting Municipal Manager, Mbulelo Memani, highlighted the dual advantages, where enhancing grid connections simultaneously bolsters safety against the risks posed by candles and paraffin stoves, and strengthens municipal finances.

Ward 3 Councillor Thembela Mhlana echoed the sentiments of the municipal management, emphasizing that placing the well-being of residents at the forefront is crucial. With an increase in electricity demand observed, Mhlana expressed optimism regarding the municipality's proactive approach to ensuring these needs are met, and shared a forward-looking vision for 2026, hoping for complete power connectivity for all Bitou households.

Closing on a note that reinforces the administration’s dedication to service delivery, Mayor Kamkam depicted the electrification program as one slice of a broader vision the municipality holds for serving all wards under its governance.