Kempton Park energy staff speak out on vehicles, tools shortages
City Manager Kagiso Lerutla, launched his flagship service delivery programme, Fixing the Frontline, in Kempton Park this morning.
Employees from the City of Ekurhuleni’s Kempton Park Energy Department gathered at the Kempton Park Energy Depot today, January 13 for a visit by City Manager Kagiso Lerutla, marking the official launch of his flagship service delivery programme, Fixing the Frontline.
The visit formed part of the City Manager’s initiative to assess working conditions at municipal depots and to engage directly with frontline employees on challenges affecting service delivery.
“We wanted to assess the conditions of the depots and to get a sense of the challenges that prevent optimal service delivery,” said Lerutla.
“We had a very fruitful engagement where employees raised issues they would like the department to address. We have assured them that we will return next week to report back.”
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During the engagement, employees highlighted several challenges that hinder their ability to perform their duties effectively.
These included a shortage of vehicles and a lack of essential tools of trade, which they said makes it difficult to complete tasks within expected timeframes.
“We have challenges with vehicles, and without vehicles there is very little we can do,” said Kempton Park Energy Department worker Mokgalong Ntshabeleng.
“There are also issues with the issuing of materials across the city. If these challenges can be addressed and vehicles properly serviced, we will be far more efficient. I am happy, convinced and hopeful that the City Manager will take these concerns forward.”
Lerutla was also shown a trench dug beneath the depot fence, which has been used by suspects to gain unauthorised access to the premises.
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The Energy Department confirmed that no materials or equipment were stolen, that several arrests have been made in connection with the incidents, and that security measures have since been strengthened to prevent further breaches.
The City Manager committed to returning to the Kempton Park Energy Depot next week with feedback on the issues raised, as part of efforts to improve working conditions and ensure effective service delivery.
