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Durban settlement electrified after 2020 but many meters never worked

Residents in Kenville say they are unhappy because they still have to use illegal connections despite electrification

Boxwood Road informal settlement in Kenville, Durban, was electrified in 2023. Photos: Nokulunga Majola.
Boxwood Road informal settlement in Kenville, Durban, home now to about 1,500 people, was established in 1998 and electrified with prepaid meters from 2020.
Yet, some households still use illegal connections. They say their meters never worked or no longer work. Residents we spoke to said they would prefer safe, legal electricity and are willing to pay for it.
Siphamandla Bhengu, who has lived in Boxwood for more than 20 years, said his meter only worked for a short period.
“When mine was working, I used to buy electricity through my phone,” he said. “I know of neighbours whose meters never worked at all.”
Tholiwe Mangaliso…

Read More: Durban settlement electrified after 2020 but many meters never worked.

Lack of community participation: Limited involvement of communities in decision-making processes.

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