LIMPOPO – Greater Giyani Municipality Mayor Thandi Zitha officially introduced five contractors on Thursday to spearhead the electrification of over 700 households in five villages in the municipal area.

The selected villages, Mageva, Matsotsosela, Munghonghoma, Loloka, and Mahlathi, have long awaited access to electricity, and this development marks a significant step forward in improving the quality of life for residents in these areas.

The five projects, once completed, are expected to cost the municipality more than R18.6m.

The projects are set to have a positive economic impact and will create an estimated 70 to 80 temporary jobs, offering work opportunities to residents during the construction phase.

The scheduled duration is eight months with contractors expected to complete the work within the time frame.

Zitha emphasised the importance of ensuring timely delivery and maintaining high standards of quality to meet the needs of the people.

“Once finished, the electrification of these households will not only improve access to electricity but also contribute to the broader goal of rural development, enhancing the overall well-being of these communities,” explained the mayor.

She said the project is a key component of the municipality’s ongoing efforts to bridge the gap in service delivery and uplift underdeveloped areas. “The projects form part of a broader strategy aimed at improving infrastructure, creating jobs, and stimulating economic growth within the municipality,” she added.

She emphasised the importance of collaboration and urged all stakeholders to cooperate fully with the contractors to ensure the projects progress smoothly and efficiently.

She stressed that open communication addressing residents’ challenges or complaints would be key to avoiding delays and stalling of the projects. “We don’t want these projects to delay or stall due to community protests; hence, we appeal to community members to communicate their problems through proper channels,” she said.

The mayor was joined by key members of her administration, including Infrastructure and Development head Cllr Thamsanqa Mabunda, and Water, Energy, and Sanitation head Cllr Gezani Maluleke.

Once completed, these projects are expected to address critical needs such as infrastructure upgrades and improved visibility in the area, which will in turn reduce crime activities affecting many villages in Giyani.