ANC Gauteng News Bulletin | Johannesburg | 25 August 2026 The City of Johannesburg has successfully settled its outstanding R5.25 billion electricity debt owed to Eskom, bringing to an end a prolonged dispute that had threatened the stability of electricity supply to residents, businesses and institutions across the economic hub of South Africa. Eskom confirmed that it received the final payment on Friday, 21 August 2026, settling the accumulated overdue amount of R5,255,421,994.16 owed by the City of Johannesburg and City Power. The settlement removes the immediate threat of electricity supply restrictions and has resulted in Eskom withdrawing the Promotion of Administrative Justice Act (PAJA) process initiated in May 2026 in relation to the outstanding arrears. A commitment to responsible governance The resolution follows an intervention and mediation process facilitated by the Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, bringing together senior leadership from the City of Johannesburg, City Power and Eskom to address the long-standing billing and payment challenges. The intervention ensured that electricity supply to Johannesburg residents and businesses remained uninterrupted while the parties worked towards a sustainable resolution. Executive Mayor Cllr Dada Morero welcomed the settlement, describing it as a significant milestone in the City's journey towards financial sustainability and responsible governance. The City has further committed to ensuring that its current Eskom accounts are paid on time, while strengthening efforts to reduce electricity losses caused by theft and vandalism and investing in critical electricity infrastructure. Protecting Johannesburg's economy Johannesburg is the country's economic powerhouse, with millions of residents and thousands of businesses dependent on a stable and reliable electricity supply. The settlement therefore goes beyond resolving an outstanding municipal account. It provides greater certainty for households, businesses, investors and the broader economy by removing the immediate threat of supply restrictions associated with the Eskom dispute. The City has also confirmed that its July 2026 current electricity account of approximately R1.86 billion, due on 31 August 2026, will be settled on time, with a commitment to keep future accounts up to date. Building a sustainable City Power The ANC welcomes the resolution as an important step towards restoring financial discipline, strengthening the relationship between the City and Eskom, and protecting residents from disruptions to essential electricity services. The work, however, does not end with the settlement of the debt. The City must continue strengthening revenue collection, combating electricity theft and vandalism, improving operational efficiency and investing in the electricity distribution network. The successful resolution demonstrates the importance of co-operative governance and constructive intergovernmental relations in addressing complex challenges affecting municipalities and communities. With the R5.25 billion overdue debt now settled, the focus must remain firmly on building a financially sustainable City Power, protecting essential services and ensuring that Johannesburg continues to receive reliable electricity to support residents, businesses and economic growth. A decisive step forward for Johannesburg. A commitment to responsible governance. A city focused on reliable services and a sustainable future. ANC Gauteng News Bulletin Serving the people. Advancing accountable and responsive government.