“STAYAWAYS, protest actions and threats to business are not a solution to the country’s electricity and loadshedding crisis and are deterring investors from risking capital investment into rebuilding our economy and retaining much- needed jobs.”
This is according to Denise van Huyssteen, chief executive of the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber, who in reaction to Monday’s planned national shutdown political stunt also said in general most manufacturers who had planned normal operations were able to do so at the required production levels. Those in the services and retail sectors were also able to operate without major disruptions.
“There were some manufacturers that were impacted by higher than normal absenteeism levels, which in certain instances resulted in adjusted production or rescheduling of shifts. Certain manufacturers in turn opted to produce over the weekend and then to close on Monday and Tuesday (the public holiday),” said Van Huyssteen.
“The ongoing sustainability of businesses has been severely impacted by loadshedding and now more than ever before, we need all the role players to work together to accelerate the implementation of solutions which will provide reliable power which can meet the country’s existing and long-term energy requirements.
“We welcome the proactive initiatives of the authorities to ensure that strong policing and security are in place around Nelson Mandela Bay. We further believe that this level of security is required on an ongoing basis around key infrastructure points to prevent the vandalism, theft and destruction of electrical sub-stations as well as water and sanitation pump stations and facilities,” said Van Huyssteen.
Additionally, as a deterrent to general crime, consideration should be given to having more visible policing around the metro on a permanent basis, as is the case in many places around the world.
ISSUED: SIBONGILE
DIMBAZA/NMB BUSINESS CHAMBER
