Deputy Minister of Electricity and Energy Launches First District Energy Council in Upington
The Deputy Minister of Electricity and Energy, Ms Samantha Graham-Maré, officially launched the first-ever District Energy Council (DEC) in Upington, marking a significant milestone in strengthening collaboration on energy matters within the ZF Mgcawu District. The historic launch brought together key stakeholders from across the district, including the Executive Mayor and Speaker of the ZF Mgcawu District Municipality, the Executive Mayor of the Dawid Kruiper Local Municipality, as well as the Mayors of Kgatelopele, Tsantsabane, !Kheis and Kai !Garib Local Municipalities.
The establishment of the District Energy Council represents a new collaborative approach to energy governance. The Council will serve as a platform to strengthen cooperation between the Department of Electricity and Energy, municipalities, Eskom, the agricultural sector, businesses and local communities. Through this partnership, stakeholders will work together to improve energy planning, address district-specific energy challenges and identify opportunities to advance sustainable and reliable energy solutions.
The initiative also seeks to ensure that energy-related matters remain a strategic priority across the district while promoting greater coordination, information sharing and joint planning among all role players. Speaking during the launch, district mayors welcomed the establishment of the Council and reaffirmed their commitment to working collectively to improve access to energy, support economic growth and enhance service delivery through sustainable energy initiatives. The launch of the District Energy Council marks the beginning of a coordinated effort to build a more resilient and energy-secure future for communities across the ZF Mgcawu District.
