Residents in two wards under uMshwathi Municipality are looking forward to a brighter 2026, as the community prepares to receive electricity for the first time. The R7 million project, aimed at providing power to households that have never had access, will see 75 units connected, covering 386 newly completed homes in ward 7 (Cool Air/Dalton) and ward 9 (uMshwathi Rich). Construction is set to begin early next week.
Hlanganisile Khanyile (43) from Cool Air said the project marks another step in transforming their lives. “It started with receiving RDP houses. I used to stay in a shack; now I have a decent home.
This festive season we felt important. We didn’t have to worry when it rained; we watched from the window. “Without electricity, we had to fetch wood, which was a struggle.
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The news that we are getting electricity is exciting, and we are grateful,” she said. Sithabisile Ndlovu (47) from Jacaranda said life without electricity is challenging. “Life is not easy without electricity, but we had no choice but to adapt.
We lit candles, made fires or used gas stoves to cook, and went to neighbouring areas to charge our cell phones. “I can’t wait to have electricity installed. I also think crime rates will drop once we have proper lighting,” she said.
Mayor Mandla Zondi said the municipality received R7 million this financial year for the project, which will be split between the two wards. “Cool Air/Dalton will get 75 units and uMshwathi Rich 200 units. Their lives are going to change for the better.
We want to appeal to residents to be patient. Those who are not yet connected should not link illegally, as that puts lives in danger,” he said.
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