Living in the Shadow of Coal Power

Ronald Mhlakaza

The community of Vosman resides in the heart of South Africa’s coal industry, surrounded by mines and power stations. Yet, while the industry has access to electricity, many households in Vosman’s informal settlements remain in darkness and energy poverty. For numerous families, electricity is unaffordable, or they are completely excluded from the grid.  

As a result, they rely on paraffin, coal, candles, and unsafe, illegal connections for their energy needs. Paraffin stoves can cause fires and poisoning, while coal smoke exacerbates asthma. Children do their homework by candlelight, and families spend up to 30% of their income just to keep the lights on or cook a meal. Women and caregivers face burns and smoke inhalation daily.  

This issue extends beyond cost; it is about dignity, health, and human rights. High tariffs, exclusionary policies, and a lack of municipal support have left marginalized families behind while the coal industry profits.  

We demand affordable tariffs and indigent subsidies for households earning less than R3,500 a month. We advocate for pilot community-owned solar cooperatives in Vosman, urgent government intervention for safe and reliable energy, training for community energy monitors, and safety campaigns regarding illegal connections.  

Eskom, eMalahleni Municipality, and national energy authorities must act now. The residents of Vosman seek energy justice: affordable electricity and investment in community renewables. Without urgent action, energy poverty will continue to trap families in cycles of illness, danger, and inequality.