Local business network concerned with the ongoing blackouts as a result of load-shedding
NCCI chairperson says load-shedding is wrecking South African economy apart and shedding much-needed jobs.
The chairperson of the Northrand Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI) and president of the Randburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI), Richard Ntjana says that the recent planned power outages are wreaking havoc on the South African economy.
This was after Eskom introduced planned power outages in the form of loads-shedding across the country due to breakdowns at a number of power stations.
Ntjana said some businesses have been forced to close their doors and people are losing their jobs in the process.
“The recent multiple power outages have negatively affected businesses in a way that others have opted to shut down. There are a number of these small businesses who cannot afford power backup generators or to install renewable energy.”
“Businesses are affected by power outages in many ways. Many businesses have missed transactions and lost revenue. Some companies have resolved to retrench employees, and this will have a direct impact on the country’s GDP.” Njtana said.
The owner of Fourways-based Humble Harris restaurant in Leaping Frog Shopping Centre, Paul Economou said the ongoing planned power outages have had a negative impact on the business.
“Government and Eskom must find a lasting solution to resolve this problem. People are no longer going out and that has a negative impact on the restaurant industry. I am now forced to buy gas to cook for customers and buy petrol to use a generator to keep the lights on at night,” Economou said.
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