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Deputy Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Prince Zolile Burns-Ncamashe, visited East London on 26 November 2025 for the handover of the Neptune and Pembroke Substation extensions. The upgrades fall under Eskom’s Greater East London Strengthening Phase 3 Project, which supports communities that have long faced power shortages.
What Happened
The Deputy Minister described the handover as a major milestone for the province’s energy network. The project expands capacity on two key substations that feed East London and surrounding rural areas. According to Burns-Ncamashe, improved electricity supply remains central to economic growth. It helps small businesses stay open, attracts investors, and strengthens service delivery.
He stressed that communities under traditional leadership also benefit from the upgrades. However, he urged residents to avoid illegal connections and to pay for services so that the infrastructure remains sustainable.
Official Response
Burns-Ncamashe linked the project to South Africa’s broader energy security goals. He said the country must continue integrating renewable energy into new and existing infrastructure. This aligns with commitments reaffirmed at the G20 Summit hosted in Johannesburg.
“We cannot expand opportunities if our communities remain in the dark. Reliable electricity is an economic enabler,” he said.
Community Impact
The strengthened network will stabilize power supply for East London, surrounding villages, and small businesses. In addition, the Deputy Minister used the platform to issue a strong call during the 16 Days of Activism period. He urged communities to confront harmful attitudes and take firm action against gender-based violence.
