KwaDukuza mayor Lindile Nhaca today, 01 June 2023, unveiled a high-capacity power sub-station in Groutville, that will ensure energy stability for thousands.
The multimillion project is named General Gizenga Mpanza, the late struggle stalwart and Army General of the uMkhonto Wesizwe who hailed from Groutville.
“Today, we honour a gallant fighter who was imprisoned on Robben Island for 15 years.General Gizenga dedicated his life towards consolidating political power for the advancement of the liberation struggle. We wish to honour his life and legacy just as equal to his efforts and commitments of realising a non-racial, non-sexist, and democratic South Africa.
The Gizenga sub-station will significantly reduce overload and tripping that had been experienced in the past. The municipality will be able to monitor load demand and breakdown period. We are also happy that this project is being unlocked at a time where KwaDukuza is in the cusp of implementing the SCADA system which will allow for remote monitoring and control of several other sub-stations”, said Nhaca.
The co-funded facility was constructed in recognition of the rapidly growing population and electricity demand. Thanks to the National Treasury for providing a portion of the funding through its programme called the National Development Partnership Grant which allocated and amount of R26 million towards construction of the facility. The total value of the project amount to R65 million which the balance of R45 million was funded by the council of KwaDukuza.
The Gizenga sub-station will strengthen supply of electricity to the following areas: Ward 07, 09, 29, 10, 14, 15 & 24. These areas include eThembeni, Dube Village, Groutville Mission, Charlottedale, Umfolozi FET & Malende.
The project since its inception has created over 45 jobs for the local community. More than eight sub-contractors benefited with each providing various services ranging from site security, brick laying, civil, plant hire, electrical installation. The Construction of the substation began in 2021.
Ends
Issued by the Office of the Mayor of KwaDukuza
