Johannesburg: AfricUpdate – News Desk
Through the Eskom Development Foundation, Eskom has partnered with the South African Red Cross Society (SARCS) to assist 3 668 beneficiaries across 501 Eastern Cape households affected by recent extreme weather conditions. This after the region suffered heavy rainfall, flooding and snowfall, leading to fatalities, significant damage to homes and infrastructure, and the displacement of more than 1 500 people.
Over 3 000 households across the OR Tambo, Amathole, and Alfred Nzo districts have been affected, resulting in serious interruptions to transportation, electricity, and livelihoods. Eskom has allocated R2 136 830 from the Eskom Development Foundation to provide vital relief items, including mattresses, blankets, food parcels, hygiene kits, and kitchen utensils to 3 668 individuals.
Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Eskom Development Foundation, Mologadi Motshele, said these beneficiaries were identified through a coordinated effort involving local ward councillors, disaster management teams, and trained volunteers working with SARCS, ensuring equitable and transparent distribution. “Eskom stands with communities during challenging times. This effort embodies our value of Sinobuntu, showing empathy, compassion, and unity with those in need,” Motshele said. Motshele said the Foundation’s Strategic Donations Committee approved this relief initiative on 30 June 2025 as part of Eskom’s wider corporate social responsibility efforts.
“For many families affected, this support represents more than material assistance; it’s a sign that they are supported and hopeful for the future. Eskom’s commitment goes beyond generating electricity. As a responsible corporate citizen, we strive to contribute sustainable value to South Africa. Our success is measured by the positive impact on the lives of South Africans. Beyond infrastructure development and electrification, Eskom supports local economic growth, skills development, and job creation, helping to transform communities nationwide,” Motshele said. Eskom further extended its heartfelt condolences to those who have suffered loss and renew its commitment to aid in the recovery and rebuilding process.
The Eskom Development Foundation (ESDEF) is a non-profit entity fully owned by Eskom Holdings SOC Ltd. It implements Eskom’s Corporate Social Investment (CSI) strategy, focusing on sustainable development projects across all nine provinces. The Foundation leads flagship initiatives in education, health, environmental protection, enterprise development, food security, rural infrastructure, and community upliftment. Over the years, ESDEF has consistently worked to improve the well-being of South African communities through targeted CSR programmes.
