In the aftermath of a devastating underground explosion that sent shockwaves through the heart of Johannesburg’s urban landscape in July, the true essence of dedication and resilience shone through, embodied by City Power’s Inner City Service Delivery Centre (SDC) restoration team. The underground explosion, occurring on Wednesday, 19 July, in Lillian Ngoyi Street, nestled between Loveday and Von Brandis Streets in the Johannesburg CBD, presented a host of formidable challenges. These challenges included navigating through inaccessible buildings, contending with flooded John Ware tunnels, and confronting high gas density levels.

Amidst the chaos and uncertainty that prevailed, City Power’s SDC team embarked on a mission that would not only test the limits of their expertise but also their endurance. Working tirelessly, often labouring late into the night and early mornings, their commitment remained unwavering as they set out to restore electricity to the inner-city.

The process of restoration commenced on Tuesday, 25 July, following the declaration by Emergency Management Services (EMS) that the site was safe for restoration efforts to begin. The team’s relentless dedication ultimately resulted in an astounding achievement – the swift restoration of electricity.

Arsenio Cossa, City Power’s Acting General Manager, proudly shares that the team managed to restore electricity to all affected areas in less than 24-hours. However, this remarkable feat was far from effortless. Prior to the restoration, the team conducted meticulous site visits and followed precise instructions to ensure the safe and successful completion of the restoration process.

“I’m extremely proud of the team; I applaud them for their commitment. They went beyond the call of duty without complaining,” commends Cossa.

Nico Mostert, the SDC Team Leader (Maintenance and Distribution), echoes Cossa’s sentiments, highlighting City Power’s vision to become a world-class electricity distributor committed to delivering a sustainable, affordable, safe, and reliable electricity supply.

“The team’s unwavering dedication to upholding these principles in the field is nothing short of commendable,” Mostert says.

Behind their uniforms and within the ambit of their work roles, this powerhouse team is based at the inner-city SDC in Doornfontein. Let’s take a moment to meet the individuals who swiftly restored electricity to the inner-city explosion site, showcasing their remarkable dedication and resilience.

Arsenio Cossa: City Power Acting General Manager

Cossa has been with City Power for 15 years.

What he loves most about his job is the fulfilling feeling when everything comes together and the possibility of learning every day.

For leisure, he enjoys time with family and volunteering as a leadership coach.

He lives by a motivation from Oprah Winfrey (who he has met in person): “It doesn’t matter what role you play in life – whether you’re a cleaner or gardener. Just be the best person in the role.”​

 

Nico Mostert: SDC Team Leader (Maintenance and Distribution)

Mostert has been with the power utility for 26 years.

What he finds most fulfilling about his job is collaborating with colleagues who collectively work towards conquering obstacles thrown their way.

Outside of work he enjoys hunting, fishing, a braai and participates in CrossFit. A maxim he lives by is: “Whatever you do, do it to the best of your ability.”

 

Thabiso Mokhosi: Electrician and Acting Team Leader (Substation 4)

Mokhosi has nine years of service at City Power.

What he loves most about his job is the satisfaction of overcoming challenges.

Outside of work he enjoys hiking and socialising. He lives by the maxim: “unity is power.”

 

Edward Motau: Electrician 

Motau has dedicated nearly four decades to City Power.

The secret to his 39 years of service is his passion to serve the public.

He is grounded in his religious beliefs and is a dedicated church man.

He holds the teachings of the Bible close to his heart.

 

Zakhele Masuku: Electrician

Masuku has been with City Power for nine years.

What he finds most fulfilling about his job is seeing the community smile after restorations.

Their faces brightening up is a satisfying sight.

Outside of work he enjoys spontaneous traveling.

He lives by the motto: “Try your best to excel in something the first time around.”

 

 

Tefo Ntabanyana: Electrician

Ntabanyana has been with City Power for nine years.

He loves seeing the relief on customers faces when electricity is restored.

When he is not at work, he enjoys watching soccer and socialising.

He believes in respecting time and considers himself a “person of the community.”

 

Robert Vermaak: Electrician (senior operator) 

Vermaak has been with City Power for 34 years.

He loves that his job is not stagnant. Each day comes with a different challenge and opportunity, and he enjoys working in a team.

Outside of work he enjoys fishing and hunting.

He believes in learning something new every day.

 

Theo Mopeli: Electrician (senior operator)

Mopeli has been with the power utility for 19 years.

He loves being on the ground and out in the field. Outside of work he finds joy in traveling.

At work he strives to do his bit in satisfying customers.

 

 

Joas Makamu: Trade assistant

Makamu has 36 years of service under his belt.

He enjoys being part of a team that is committed to quality service to residents.

Outside of work he enjoys gardening; helping others is in his nature.

 

 

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Written by Brümilda Swartbooi

18.10.2023