THE power of collaboration has never been more evident than in the success of the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber’s Adopt-A-Substation initiative.
The Struandale Geographic Cluster’s adoption of the Matomela, KwaFord, Struandale, and Swartkops substations recently marked its second anniversary. This is an initiative that has prevented vandalism-related power outages in the area during this period.
In a statement, Angus Clark, Chairperson of the Struandale Geographic Cluster, noted that by coming together as the business community, they have demonstrated the great achievements possible when local businesses unite for a common purpose. “The collaboration between businesses, service providers, and local authorities has created a powerful model for safeguarding critical infrastructure and fostering long-term economic growth.”
As one of the first areas to act under the Adopt-A-Substation initiative, the Struandale Geographic Cluster sets an example for others to follow. Since formally adopting the four substations in 2023, there have been no reports of power outages caused by theft or vandalism.
This success stems from the Cluster’s commitment to securing vital power infrastructure, critical for the smooth operation of local businesses.
Key to this achievement has been the implementation of robust security measures, including perimeter fencing, 24-hour armed patrols via an Atlas Security vehicle, and the installation of high-tech security cameras monitored continuously. The financial support of the Cluster’s members, who contribute monthly to the initiative, ensures the ongoing monitoring of CCTV systems and continued protection for the next three years.
Clark emphasised the importance of collaboration between business and the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber in protecting local infrastructure. “By taking a proactive approach, we’ve created a safer environment for businesses to thrive. The success of this initiative proves that when we come together with a shared goal, we can create sustainable solutions that benefit everyone.”
The Struandale Geographic Cluster’s efforts are part of a broader initiative, launched through the Chamber’s Electricity Task Team, to safeguard vital electricity infrastructure. Initiated in 2022 with a Memorandum of Understanding between the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality and the Chamber, the Adopt-A-Substation programme now includes 20 substations across the Metro.
The programme enables businesses to deploy monitoring and surveillance measures to prevent disruptions to power supply, contributing to a more stable and reliable business environment.
Denise van Huyssteen, CEO of the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber, said, “The success of this initiative highlights the importance of local businesses actively getting involved in solving challenges, ensuring investment and employment can be retained in our metro. By adopting a proactive, solution-focused approach, we focus on the issues and the solutions needed to ensure stability in the operating environment.
“This fosters a spirit of collaboration and highlights the need for urgent action by stakeholders to protect vital electricity infrastructure from vandalism.”
She further emphasised that local businesses have demonstrated their commitment to continue operating in the Bay through interventions like Adopt-A-Substation, Adopt-A-Leak, and the formation of 11 geographic clusters around the Bay. “Instead of complaining from the sidelines, our business community is taking action. However, this does not mean we intend to take over government work. We need local authorities to develop and implement clear action plans to protect and maintain electricity, water, sanitation, and road infrastructure.
“As a business community, we are willing to collaborate and provide technical expertise to address enabling environment issues.”
