Johannesburg: AfricUpdate – News Desk
Eskom has entered into a lease agreement for its historically significant steam locomotives in a bid to ensure the locomotives’ preservation and continued operation. The power utility announced on Monday that the successful bidder for the five-year lease is New Cape Central Railway Ltd.
“At Eskom, we acknowledge our duty not only to deliver electricity but also to safeguard the valuable heritage assets entrusted to us. By opting for a lease arrangement rather than a sale, Eskom retains custodianship of these assets, affirming its commitment to heritage preservation as a proudly South African company,” Eskom Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane, said.
Eskom Rotek Industries Chief Executive Officer, Hector Danisa, said: “These iconic locomotives have powered the energy industry for more than a century. This milestone demonstrates our shared commitment to persevering them and making them accessible through structured partnerships, keeping their legacy for many years to come. They form a vital part of South Africa’s industrial and cultural legacy and rich history. The handover of the historical locomotives, held at Eskom Rotek Industries – coincides with South Africa’s Heritage Month, held under the theme, “Reimagine Heritage Institutions for a New Era.”
In that vein, Eskom explained that the locomotives were leased to a “qualified heritage organisation”, ensuring their preservation and continued operation. “This process was conducted in close consultation with the South African Heritage Resources Agency and the Heritage Railway Association of South Africa, who provided guidance to ensure compliance with national heritage standards.
The treasured collection of these locomotives was once housed at the South African National Rail and Steam Museum in Krugersdorp. Originally intended for restoration and public exhibition, these locomotives were retrieved from the now-defunct museum. Eskom has now entered into this lease agreement for these locomotives, thereby securing a new future for these pieces of South African rail history”, the power utility said.
