Thushang: 'Our food is starting to rot!'

VILLAGERS of Ga-Matipane outside Bolobedu in Limpopo take to the streets after several days in the dark.

The residents wanted to show their dissatisfaction with Eskom on Thursday, 3 October after a transformer broke down.

They blocked their tarred road with branches and rubble to prevent any movement as a way to get Eskom's attention. This after they were left in the dark since Sunday, 29 September after their transformer was allegedly damaged by lightning, leaving them in total darkness.

They said they've had enough with Eskom's slow pace when responding to their calls and that they aren't given priority when it comes to services.

Resident Thomas Maifo (37) said they have to wait for ages before officials attend to their problems.

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"Protesting is the only language our government knows for them to quickly attend to community issues. We can't be left in the dark for so long and without getting any explanation. Eskom shouldn't treat us like we live on farms and our area isn't accessible. It was not our fault that the transformer was damaged," he said.

They said being in the dark is costing them a lot and also putting their lives in danger.

Another Kedibone Makhubela (34) said being in the dark makes them vulnerable to criminals.

"Izinyoka take the opportunity to steal our electricity cables. This is taking us backwards because after the transformer is fixed, we will still be in the dark. We bought food in bulk that should be refrigerated and now they are starting to rot," she said.

Eskom Limpopo spokeswoman Matshidiso Phaladi said the fault was discovered on Monday, 30 September.

"All this while we were mobilising resources in order to restore supply without challenges. The transformer was replaced on Thursday, 3 October," she said.