City Power and other municipal entities visited the Midrand community of Rabie Ridge for civic education, informing residents about the importance of conserving electricity and reporting vandalism of municipal infrastructure. Municipal teams were out in force on local streets in the area, handing out pamphlets and engaging and educating residents about the services provided by the City. The team’s morale was high at first, but they were confronted with the stark reality of how ordinary Joburgers live.

​An elderly community member who requested anonymity expressed her general dissatisfaction with the slow pace of service delivery in the area.

However, City Power officials informed her of municipal plans to improve the quality of service delivery in the area, including a massive rollout of bulk services now that the institution has been stabilised.

“We believe our government has the ability to change our lives, which we require because we are struggling,” she said.

City Power officials also interacted with local youth, teaching them about the dangers of not conserving energy. They also informed them about job opportunities available in the City, including internships for recent graduates.

Schoolchildren were advised on which subjects to study if they want to become public servants.

Mary Morwaswi, a City official from Region A said the event was held to educate residents about the services provided by the municipality and how to access them.

“We also encouraged people to protect municipal facilities and infrastructure because these benefit the entire community,” Morwaswi said.

She added that the campaign was a success overall because of the large turnout.

Morwaswi noted that a similar education programme will be implemented throughout the municipality to teach residents about energy conservation. Future plans include enlisting more young people to participate in a regular educational programme to increase access to information.

Written by Lelethu Tyilana

10/03/2023