Residents in the Makhado Municipality using prepaid electricity meters have been given until 24 November to upgrade their meters. However, the municipality has not clarified the consequences for those who fail to meet the deadline, nor has it provided an explanation for the delayed notification to residents.
The announcement has caught many residents by surprise, with some claiming they were unaware of the required upgrades.
Thabang Tlou, secretary of the South African National Civic Organisation (SANCO), expressed disappointment over the lack of communication, particularly with residents of Tshikota. Speaking to the newspaper, Tlou said, "As SANCO, we are disappointed not to have been informed in time about the upgrades. It is the ratepayer's right to be informed by the municipality about any developments regarding its services. As it stands, we have not received any communiqué about upgrading meters in Tshikota's Ward 7."
Some residents, including ward councillor Pierre Smalle, are aware of the upgrades but have echoed the need for improved communication. "Communication should be done regularly, not just through final reminders. Radio broadcasts can reach those without access to social media. Communication between municipal officials and councillors should also be prioritised. People get frustrated when they are uninformed. Continuous updates and sharing of information can help alleviate this frustration," said Smalle.
Municipal spokesperson Mpho Rathando assured residents that efforts are underway to improve communication, including providing updates when electricity is purchased. "In the next day or two, the municipality will communicate with residents through radio broadcasts and other platforms to remind them," Rathando said.
Rathando further explained that the upgrades can be completed from home. Residents experiencing challenges are encouraged to visit the municipality for assistance.
Upgrade Process for Makhado Municipality Residents
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The newspaper obtained a social media post shared by the municipality detailing the upgrade process (see accompanying municipal notice for more clarity):
1. Enter all unused tokens.
2. Enter TID Key Change Token 1.
3. Enter TID Key Change Token 2.
4. Enter a free token (if eligible).
5. Enter a credit token.
If residents make an error during the process, they should wait 10 minutes before attempting again or contact municipal agents at (087) 742-0459 for assistance.
Instructions for Eskom Prepaid Meters
Residents using Eskom prepaid meters can follow these steps to check and upgrade their meters:
1. Enter the code 1844 6744 0738 4377 2416 on the meter keypad.
If the screen displays "1," the meter is still on KRN1 and requires an upgrade to KRN2.
If "2" is displayed, no upgrade is needed.
2. Obtain Key Change Tokens from Eskom-approved vendors, including online and local outlets that sell prepaid electricity tokens.
To complete the upgrade:
Step 1: Enter the first 20 digits of the Key Change Token marked "Number 1" and wait for acceptance.
Step 2: Enter the second 20 digits of the Key Change Token marked "Number 2" and wait for acceptance.
Step 3: Enter a 20-digit electricity recharge token to restore functionality.
Residents are encouraged to address upgrades promptly to avoid interruptions in service. If you are unsure whether your meters have already been upgraded, it is your responsibility to contact the municipality for verification. You may contact the following Makhado municipal officials for assistance: Ms A G Nemutshili at (082) 756-0913 or Mr T Manebaneba (072) 153-3068.