In a move that has intensified the financial strain on many households, South Africa is set to implement a 12.7% increase in electricity tariffs effective April 1, 2025—a date dubbed “Fossil Fools’ Day” by environmental advocacy group Earthlife Africa. This hike, coupled with an impending 0.5% increase in Value Added Tax (VAT), is compelling already struggling families to make difficult decisions between powering their homes and affording other essential needs.
The populace has consistently expressed their discontent through protests and participation in public hearings. Despite these efforts, governmental approval of such tariff increases persists, disproportionately impacting the nation’s most vulnerable citizens. Communities already grappling with poverty, unemployment, and inconsistent power supply feel marginalized, as their demonstrations and appeals appear to be disregarded.
Civil society organizations, notably Earthlife Africa Johannesburg, have condemned the tariff surge, arguing that the burden of Eskom’s mismanagement, corruption, and failure to modernize should not fall on the shoulders of struggling households. Activists are calling for a transition to affordable renewable energy sources, urging the government to prioritize the needs of the people over Eskom’s financial recovery and to establish a fair and transparent energy system.
