JAN

-MAR

- 20

11

NewsSECwww.sec.co.sz

NEWSLETTER OF THE SWAZILAND ELECTRICITY COMPANY

SwazilandElectricityCompany

CALL OUR TOLL-FREE LINE - 800 9000 6a.m. - 10p.m. on week-days 8a.m. - 7p.m. on weekends & holidays

OUR QUEST FOR SERVICE EXCELLENCE CONTINUESOUR QUEST FOR SERVICE EXCELLENCE CONTINUES

SEC News

Core Values

Our Mission

Our VisionTo be a major player in the energy sector development, nationally and regionally

To meet the needs of our customers in a sufficiently profitable and environmentally soundway through providing a reliable and safe power supply of acceptable quality

SERVICE EXCELLENCE HONESTY/INTERGRITY RESPECT SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

E30m worth sub-station at Mayiwane

E21m rural electrification project launched

Over 95 000 to be on prepaid by June

A new SEC customer-focused campaign

SEC leads 2011 Earth Hour campaign

CONTENTS

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18-19

A Note from the Editor

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customers to contact us whenever they have queries, customers not to wait until the last minute to replenish concerns and even compliments. We remain their units.

More often, we have had long queues at some retail committed to serving them with even greater outlets and SEC revenue offices made up of desperate enthusiasm. Our goal is to have SEC admired for ALL customers. Some customers wait till the units are the right reasons, which may include an improved turn-finished before they consider buying some more. The around time and supreme customer care.

Testimonies problem arises when there is an unforeseen technical We take pride in that the advent of pre-paid electricity glitch in the vending system. Just like any other IT

has brought smiles to a number of our customers. This gadget, our system is prone to some technical EC's mission to become a customer- is evidenced by the heartening testimonies we have interruptions. It is for that reason that we advise those orientated service provider is progressively heard from some customers on how pre-paid electricity who can afford to buy in large quantities to do so. The moving towards the right direction. There is S has empowered them to take control of their 8888 system, for example, often gets overloaded and

never a day that passes by without attempts being consumption patterns. its speed affected, especially when thousands of made to improve the way we serve our customers. Unlike in the post-paid era when people used to be people attempt to load their units at the same time.

We are aware that it may be too soon to expect all the taken by surprise by their electricity bills every month, We would like to thank our customers and all tens of thousands of electricity consumers to have they now have adjusted their consumption to match concerned for their words of encouragement in support taken note of the customer-centric initiatives injected their pockets. For quite some time now, SEC has been of our quest for service excellence. As repeatedly across all sections of the company. With integrity and encouraging its customers to use electricity sparingly, stated, management and staff are fully committed to honesty forming part of our core values, we find solace and we are excited that we have begun reaping the transforming SEC into a fully-fledged customer-centric in that all SEC employees are working hard in their fruits of our toil. company. respective sections to live up to the bar that we have set Whilst fully appreciating the positive spin-offs brought ourselves. On that score, we continue to call on our about by the prepayment roll-out, we wish to advice

SEC News is the official newsletter of Swaziland Electricity Company (SEC), published by the Corporate Communications Department. Opinions expressed in the production do not necessarily represent the views of the Directors or Management of the company. For queries contact: The Corporate Communications Department; Swaziland Electricity Company; Eluvatsini House, Mhlambanyatsi Road, P. O. Box 258 Mbabane, or call +268 409 9000

© SEC - 2011

“We have heard encouraging testimonies from some of

our customers on how pre-paid electricity has empowered

them to take control of their consumption patterns.

”Corporate Communications Manager Mr. Sifiso Dhlamini.

CONTRIBUTORS: Khaya Mavuso, Sam Mzileni, Sabelo Mhlanga, Constance Van Zuydam and Enerst Mkhonta.

DESIGN: Corporate Communications Department

Message from the MD

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steel monopoles. This project was blessed with the visit to stress. The correction exercise will be to ensure that the the Mayiwane site by the Honourable Minister of Natural system is less stressed, the voltage is improved and the Resources and Energy, HRH Princess Tsandzile, who also technical losses are minimized. Such systems have a high performed a sod-cutting ceremony to mark its official start. impact on revenue-saving and the pay-back period is

normally short. SCADA Project

Corporate Services Projects Another notable project is the official signing of the contract between SEC and ISTE Powertech to implement the For the period ending March 2011, the Corporate Services Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) project. Division undertook a number of initiatives and programmes Implementation of this project will be spread over a period as detailed below:of just more than two years. The project will address the replacement of the present Central Station for the SEC a) Conclusion of the Section 40 consultation SCADA system. This means that all the equipment in the processes with both the Union and Staff various sites will be able to communicate with the new Association, following the implementation of the central station. SEC Restructuring Programme. All in all, 95 The reason for the replacement is that the current system is employees were affected:now old, having been in existence for almost 11 years now. This is a computer-based system and, as such, it is already 22 of whom have requested Voluntary Retirement obsolete and sourcing of spares is a challenge. The new as of the 5th April 2011system will come with additional facilities to help monitor s mentioned in our last edition, SEC is in the and control the 11kV network. We have also been informed process of building four new depots to help 34 employees have been redeployed to of the customer interface module that exists in the new improve our turn-around time and meet our A alternative positions on promotion system, which will enable technicians to link customers' customers' needs. parts of the network depending on their locations.So far, we have been able to secure land for these projects 33 employees have been redeployed to

at Madlangemphisi and Sithobela areas. We are still alternative positions at the same levelworking on securing pieces of land at Lobamba/Zulwini and The use of the earthing wire to improve the Basic Insulation Mankayane. Nonetheless, work continues as the projects Level (BIL) on the 11kV system is now being employed 6 employees have been redeployed to alternative, have clear time-lines. A typical depot has been designed countrywide. Most depots have adopted the system and but lower positionsand circulated to the stakeholders for comments. Tendering also our contractors have been trained on how to apply the is being effected and contractors have already been shown system correctly. b) The Job Evaluation processes were finalised by the sites where the depots will be constructed. Hay Group and the final report was submitted to

Power Factor Correction both management and organised labour in March Rural Substations SEC is about to embark on a power factor correction 2011. The report is currently being considered by Alongside the depots, land has been secured for the project, which will enhance the operation of the system. A management and organised labour.building of substations at Nkhaba and Siphofaneni. study that we have just completed indicates that the system

is loaded with reactive power (VARs), especially in the c) Two phases of the Salary Review Report i.e. eastern network. This situation causes unnecessary System Re-enforcement Salary Benchmarking and the Pay Scale Design overloading and results in poor voltage levels. The study Project work has started at Mayiwane where a 66/11kV were finalised. The consultant doing this (21st has further shown that all the transformers will tap up to substation will be built. This will be powered from an Century Pay Solutions) submitted their report in correct the system voltage, and thus work under extreme overhead line from Sihhoye, which will be constructed on March 2011.

MD Mr. Pius Gumbi.

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direction provided to management by the directors of the 'enabler' more than a provider. SEC will be seen as an The report is currently being considered by company. This dividend, though, is still below expectation enabler of all sectors of the Swazi economy whilst also management and organised labour. considering that the shareholder has invested E433 million in driving the 'caution' message so that we ensure our

the company. We are hopeful that the company will continue customers are safe with our products. Next in line will be the to maintain its good performance, and thereby add value to review of our advertising line especially now that we have d) The website re-design project has been its shareholder. discontinued the slogan 'we have the power'.commissioned and will hopefully be closed out by

beginning of June 2011. The website re-design is being done by Onswaziline Investments . 2011/2012 Budget Documentation of Quotation Procedures

On the 13th of March 2011, the Board of Directors approved The quotation approach we are using is being reviewed and e) An Employee Perception Survey was also the budget for the year 2011/2012. I would, therefore, urge all proposed changes were brought to the attention of our

commissioned. This project, too, will be undertaken cost centre holders to ensure appropriate use of the budget. management in an effort to ensure that we continue in April/May 2011. It is also vital that projects are implemented in time so that 'protecting our revenue'. The process is to be completed

they can benefit our customers. before the end of the next quarter. It is hoped that the finalisation of the process harmonises and standardises our f) The revised Recognition Agreements with both the procedures while bringing consistency to our quotations.Union and Staff Association were also concluded During the last quarter the Customer Service Division

this quarter and have been signed by all parties. continued with pursuing several customer facing projects in The agreements will now be registered at the an effort to drive the customer service mandate. Below are SHERQIndustrial Court. some of our highlights which we believe will be of interest to Sherq committees have been established in all departments

you. and it is hoped that this will go a long way in ensuring that we improve our safety rating as an organisation. g) The Legal Office also facilitated the conclusion of

the Ubombo Sugar/SEC Power Purchase SEC RoadshowsAgreement which both parties signed in March The Marketing Team continued with community outreach Earth Hour Commemoration2011. activities through roadshows in an effort to inform our For the first time SEC spearheaded the commemoration of

customers on our products and company initiatives. Areas this global initiative through partnering with other visited include Timphisini Inkhundla and Gege Inkhundla, stakeholders like Renewable Energy Association of USL/SEC PPAamongst others. We were encouraged to note that most Swaziland (REASWA), Swaziland Environment Authority, We have now completed our negotiations with Ubombo communities were happy about the visits by SEC. Council of Swaziland Churches, Nedbank and the Ministry of Sugar Limited (USL) with regards to the power purchase

Natural Resources and Energy. The event was celebrated at agreement (PPA). USL is the first IPP in the country to sell to Radio Shows the Public Service Pensions Fund (PSPF) building in SEC. This transaction required the purchase of the exclusive

Mbabane on the 26th March 2011. It is hoped that this will be right to the excess power from USL. SEC is very proud of this The weekly Friday SEC radio shows continue to be an an annual event in the SEC and Swazi calendar.initiative as it will go a long way into filling the deficit gap in our important element of our interaction with customers. The

energy demand versus supply curve. At its peak, the energy feedback we get from the live programmes is invaluable and supplied will be 55GWh, which translates to about 6% of helps us get an indicator of our initiatives in the field. Topics Efficiency StudySEC's annual demand. covered in the last quarter include illegal connections, With the finalisation of the efficiency study, the Distribution

bypasses, prepayment and others. Division shall be moved from the Operations Division to Dividend Declaration Customer Service Division. Meanwhile, SHERQ,

New Marketing Campaign Environment and Survey shall move over from Customer During the last quarter, the Shareholder, being The Service to a new division, Technical Services.Government of Swaziland, approved a dividend declaration The new advertising campaign has started hitting the

of E6m during the shareholders annual general meeting. billboards and as well as STBC. The content of the This was the first time for SEC and the first parastatal in the advertising approach is quite innovative and is anticipated to Our quest for Service Excellence continues!country to do such. This has been achieved through the good be appealing to our customers. It repositions SEC as an

We have now completed our negotiations with Ubombo Sugar Limited (USL) with regards to the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). USL

is the first IPP in the country to sell to SEC. This transaction required the purchase of the exclusive right to the excess power from USL.

SEC is very proud of this initiative as it will go a long way into filling the deficit gap in our energy demand versus supply curve. “”

Minister Tsandzile commissions E30m sub-station

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SEC Managing Director Pius Gumbi. project to take place. atural Resources and Energy Minister the In his address, the SEC MD stated that Mayiwane Honourable Princess Tsandzile on March

was selected for the construction of the sub-station N16 commissioned the construction of a E30 because electricity lines in the area were extended million electricity sub-station at Mayiwane in the over long distances, thus causing voltage drops which northern Hhohho region. in turn led to poor service. The sub-station is expected to address power

“Most sub-stations are quite distant from this area, outages and provide stable electricity supply to areas which is why storms easily affect the stability of such as Mkhuzweni, Buhleni, Ndlalambi, Mayiwane, electricity,” Gumbi said.Msahweni, Ngonini Estate and others along the Pigg's

Businesses Peak–Matsamo Border Post stretch. He also stated that the area was selected based on “This project will improve the quality of life in this part

the fact that there is a large business at Ngonini of the country. It will create opportunities for growth of Estates that stands to benefit from the sub-station, as economic activities,” said the Minister. well as the fact that Buhleni is fast developing into a town centre. “With the improved economic activity, there will be

more job opportunities to enable people to support Gumbi stated that there will be more rural type sub-their families. We commend that the project itself is

stations built in other areas throughout the country, bringing with it some temporary jobs for the local starting with the Shiselweni region. communities,” added the Minister.

He stressed that the construction of the sub-station The sod-cutting ceremony was attended by, among at Mayiwane would also create employment others, Members of Parliament, Hhohho Regional opportunities for the community. Gumbi expressed his Administrator Ben Mashamndane Nsibandze, appreciation to the area's elders for allowing the Mkhuzweni Headman Mangomeni Ndzimandze and

Sub-Station will be equipped with a 10MVA 66/11kV transformer unit, which will also work as a back-up for the Pigg's Peak and Balekane sub-stations

Included in the design is a system to enable remote monitoring and control of the station circuit breakers

The project is entirely funded from internal resources

The sub-station will see the erection of about 20kms of a 66kV line on steel monopoles from Sihhoye at a cost of around E11m

HIGHLIGHTS OF MAYIWANE SUB-STATION

The minister commissioning the construction of the sub-station. Hon. MP Jennifer du Pont addressing the gathering. Dignitaries singing the national anthem.

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n the 10th of March, SEC, joined other companies and the rest of the world in Ocelebrating the International Women's Day

at the Royal Swazi Sun Convention Centre in Ezulwini.

The event was organized by the Business Women's Forum of Swaziland (BWFS), an organization which represents the interests of women in business and the corporate sector. It operates under the auspices of the Federation of Swaziland Employers and Chamber of Commerce (FSE&CC).

The International Women's Day is celebrated on March 8 every year, and different organizations around the world recognize it by staging activities around a common theme. 2011 is the centenary of the International Women's Day commemoration. This year’s theme was “Access and participation of women and girls in education, training, science and technology, including the promotion of women's equal

Narrating how she climbed the ladder to become the frequent storms and heavy rains leading to power access to full employment and decent work”

Big Bend Depot Superintendent, Dlamini said her outages. In such instances, the team is forced to go career with SEC began in 1998. She was recruited as a out, despite the weather conditions, to have power

The BWFS, through its Board of Directors, decided technician wherein some of her duties included restored.”

on celebrating and recognizing women who are in IT, erecting electricity poles and power lines.

Sciences and Education at this year's event. Rising through the ranks Dlamini admitted that being female in such a male

In support of this initiative, SEC sponsored the event Dlamini was later taken for training during which she dominated terrain has its own challenges, especially

and also bought a table of 10, which was occupied by obtained a Bachelor's Degree. After completing her when it comes to striking a balance between family and

some of the leading female employees. Among these training, she rose through the ranks until her work. “As a mother, wife and manager, balancing

were Nosipho Dlamini, Constance Van Zuydam, Fikile appointment as Big Bend Depot Superintendent in things can be a lot hectic as our families cannot

Dlamini, Nombulelo Mabuza, Sibongile Mthethwa, 2009. She leads a team of 15 men, among others. understand the situations sometimes,” she said.

Dortia Dlamini, Vuyisile Nzima and Tiletsile Malaza. Dlamini said her job often exposed her, literally, to Dlamini, however, stated that it is such challenges

storms when she and her team have to attend to that make her a better person. She further encouraged The most captivating speech of the night came from

electricity faults, sometimes in the dead of the night. other women to take head-on the challenges in the SEC's only female depot manager Nosipho Dlamini.

“The rainy season is usually the worst because of the male-dominated field of science and technology.

Big Bend Depot Superintendent Nosipho Dlamini addressing the gathering.

SEC joins Women’s Day celebrations

Buli Mabuza, Sibongile Mthethwa, Vuyisile Nzima,Tiletsile Malaza and Dortia Dlamini.

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t is expected that by June 2011 all SEC domestic Since the start of the prepayment project, a number of and small business customers would have been concerns had been raised by customers, the major Iconverted from postpaid to prepaid electricity. ones being the lack of sufficient education on how the

The new system has been praised by many customers system operates. as a convenient way to keep track of their electricity consumption on a daily basis. Since the start of the The company is pleased to report that these concerns prepayment project in the Manzini region in July 2008, are now minimal following discussions with the a total of 86, 447 customers have been converted from contractors engaged to perform the conversions as post-paid. Only 8, 835 are yet to be converted and only well as the supervisors of the respective SEC depots. about 860 are in the Manzini region, 903 in the Hhohho This is a good sign for an improvement of customer region, 2,933 from Lubombo and 4,999 in the service. There is no doubt that there is also a great Shiselweni region. The plan is to finish all the benefit being derived from the interactive radio conversions within the next two months. programme on the SiSwati Channel of the Swaziland

Broadcasting and Information Services (SBIS).The majority of customers still on postpaid are in the Shiselweni and Lubombo regions, in particular Siteki, All contractors have been inducted on how to treat Big Bend, Hluti and Nhlangano. SEC has allocated customers. In cases where customers reported bad

measures. The induction of contractors on customer more resources to the Big Bend and Nhlangano areas treatment by a contractor or SEC personnel, the service has yielded some good results as indicated so as to speed up the conversion rate. company has made every effort to effect corrective by the snapshot interviews conducted on some customers. The challenges imposed by weather and power interruptions in many areas have also affected progress of the project. However, we are pleased to note that the contractors seem to have the capacity to make up for the lost time.

Project implementation started in the during the initial visits. Manzini Region in July 2008 at Trelawny Park following the success of the pilot Roll out to the remaining regions in the project in Ngwane Park. country started in October 2010 fully

managed by SEC.Project was then spread to other areas in the Manzini region under a contract Eleven local sub-contractors have been awarded to Itron (then known as Actaris). engaged to perform the conversions.

Bulk of the project in the Manzini region Data capturing into the system is done in-was completed in 2010 and current house from various stations within the conversions are on the various areas company. where customers were not available

ABOUT THE PREPAYMENT PROJECT

MANZINI - 37, 426

SEC managers Ernest and Sifiso talking about the pre-paid system at one of the company’s interactive radio shows at SBIS.

The number of conversions currently.

SHISELWENI - 7775

LUBOMBO - 14893

HHOHHO - 26 353

Over 95 000 to be on prepaid by June

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E21m Rural Electrification Project launchedBOUT 1 641 homesteads countrywide will benefit from the rural electrification project Athat has been jointly sponsored by the

governments of Swaziland, the Republic of China on Taiwan and SEC.

A sum of E21million has been set aside by both governments and SEC for the project launched in February by the Minister of Natural Resources and Energy, Princess Tsandzile. About E10 million of the total amount will be used to construct a substation at Nkhaba, an exercise aimed at averting the random power outages affecting energy consumers between Pigg's Peak and Hawane.

In her address during the launch ceremony held at Mafutseni, Princess Tsandzile highlighted the importance of the rural electrification project in improving the lives of ordinary communities. She sounded hopeful that the beneficiaries will initiate development projects and businesses that will assist in alleviating poverty.

“The project we're launching today is very important because it'll make people's lives better in many

electrification project began it focused only on schools, schemes under his constituency. respects. For instance, pupils will now be in a better clinics and other important community structures, but position to study in the evenings because there'll be the spotlight changed around 2006 to cover even Madonsela said he was optimistic that there would be abundant light,” she said. Added the Minister; “We're residents. Gumbi said the Mafutseni project will business initiatives in the area and that crime will go aware that most people, especially in rural areas, are accommodate about 51 group schemes, each with a down now that there will be electricity. He also stated that unable to have electricity connected to their houses sizable number of homesteads. he had no doubt that their children's academic results because it is costly, but now we hope this project will

“As a company we are grateful to both our government will improve as they will now be able to study with less ease the burden.”and that of Taiwan for contributing to the development of inhibitions. some parts of Swaziland. We hope that the residents She then extended her gratitude to Taiwanese here and in other areas will take advantage of the “The people of this constituency had almost given up ambassador to Swaziland Peter Tsai for the generous electricity and have it connected to their houses. on receiving any form of assistance from government, funding and also to the Swaziland Electricity Company

Mafutseni Member of Parliament Joseph Madonsela and we're happy that we'll now have electricity in most (SEC) for its commitment to turning Swaziland into a first heaped praises on all the parties involved in the project, homesteads. We thank most sincerely the Minister, world country by 2022.which stand to benefit six chiefdoms and 25 electricity Taiwanese government and the SEC MD,” said the MP. Meanwhile, SEC MD Pius Gumbi said when the rural

Ambassador of the Republic of China on Taiwan Peter Tsaiand Minister of Natural Resources and Energy, HRH Princess Tsandzile at the Mafutseni launch.

Contractor workers erecting electricity poles as part of the Rural Electrification Project.

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s part of our efforts to step up service ensuring above-average service. the following;delivery to the Swazi nation, SEC has Astarted rolling–out a new advertising Our new advertising campaign will ensure that we Creating a debate and discussion around

campaign, which seeks to change myths are relevant to the needs of our customers. The the new SEC positioncurrently linked with the company. campaign will further ensure that customers have

adequate access to critical information, especially Improved customer relations and service SEC is now a more caring company with a warm through our call centre and toll-free line 800 9000. deliverypersonality, and one that is an 'enabler' of all sectors The effectiveness of the campaign will ensure that of the economy. This is the message that SEC is SEC is well positioned to become one of the best Ensuring SEC is a leading parastatal that sending across to the public. parastatals in the country. cares

SEC is in a transformation process, moving from The campaign stresses some of our strategic key Maintain status as a market leader.being a technically-driven to a customer-orientated performance areas such as safety, customer focus, service provider. and growth. It supports some of our ongoing projects We believe this campaign will make our employees Our new approach is already showing the desired such as prepaid and Demand Side Management, proud SEC brand ambassadors while also giving the results as more and more customers are now among others. The campaign will be executed company a personality, since it exudes an emotional appreciative of the efforts shown by the company in through, at least, seven stages targeted to achieve and symbolic appeal.

Our new advertising campaign

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SEC declares E6m dividend to government

E24.8m to be spent on SCADA upgrade

EC in early March declared a dividend of E6 Energy ’s Po r t f o l i o Commi t tee , P r i ncess million to its shareholder, the government of Ncengencenge noted that SEC was doing a SSwaziland. commendable job. She said this was proof that the

Minister of Natural Resources and Energy Princess company is working with government for the upliftment Tsandzile received the cheque. She remarked that of the country’s socio-economic status. SEC Board SEC was the first parastatal to give a dividend to Chairman S'thofeni Ginindza explained that the government. presentation of the dividend to government was the

“We are proud of the company and wish to thank the right thing for SEC to do following its conversion into a staff, management and the board for their hard work,” company. Present during the declaration of the she said. Member of Parliament, who is also dividend were some board members, members of chairperson of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Parliament and SEC senior managers.

EC will spend E24.8 million on upgrading its Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition S(SCADA), which will ensure accurate

detection of electrical faults. The company has signed a service level agreement

with Powertech, the South African-based company awarded the tender expected to be completed in two years.

The current SCADA is 11 years old. The MD stated that the SCADA software upgrade is aimed at bringing better service to the customer as faults will now be clearly identified.

With the upgrade, SEC will be able to trace all electrical cables enabling the detection of any faults without having to physically inspect the suspected faulty areas.

Minister Princess Tsandzile receiving a E6mcheque from SEC Board Chairman S’thofeni Ginindza.

MD Pius Gumbi and Powertech’s Donald McKechniesigning the service level agreement.

SEC employees hard at work at the National Control Centre in Mbabane.

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ll SEC employees have been mandated to company has seen employees sustaining injuries ensure a safe working environment within either from falling from ladders or motorcycles. Athe organisation.

SEC management working jointly with employees It is the company’s target to obtain a 5-star rating in hope to have these incidents avoided by all means. All the October 2011 SHERQ system external audit. users of ladders and motorized equipment are urged to Previous audits have rather been unsatisfactory. If the take the necessary precautions to avoid 5-star rating target is to be achieved, then it is best to reoccurrences. The popular Friday safety talks held at start living the dream now.

The renewed focus of the SHERQ system is to pro- every SEC depot are being used as a vehicle to actively prevent the occurrence of all incidents, which sensitise employees to be cautious when using the include Injuries On Duty (IODs), property damage and above mentioned equipment.near-misses (where there is no damage or injury).

On the diagram shown on this page, we assess our In the past 3-months, 6 major injuries have been incidents reporting pattern using the Frank Birds'

reported within the organization. Predominantly, the accident ratio. It is evident that we have not reached our full potential, but, at least, there is light at the end of the tunnel. Worth noting is that major injuries are rarely experienced.

It is upon all employees to adhere to the laid down incidents-recording procedures. It is from records that trends are established and corrective measures are recommended to minimize the occurrence of incidents.

Lastly, employees are encouraged to prevent the occurrence of all incidents within the company. In terms of the SHERQ system, every incident counts. Some may appear to be trivial, when in reality their address would assist in increasing efficiency and avoid catastrophes. Help us to help you work safely at SEC and let us protect all our assets for the sake of future generations.

Safety is our priority

The SHERQ system sets to prevent the occurrence of all incidents such as damage to vehicles, livestock and property.

...major injuries are rarely experienced

No Damageor Injury (NM)

Frank Bird - 1980

Property Damage

Serious or Minor Injury

Disabling/Major Injury

1

10

30

600

Our Roadshows

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Marketing officer Jabu Ndwandwe, Kai Kaiand Nombuso Dlamini watching the proceedingsin Gege.

Coca-Cola drinking competition at the Gegeroadshow.

SEC’s Xoli Dlamini presents a resident with a gift at the Nhlambeniroadshow.

Gospel artist Mayibongwe Mthimkhulu leads in song at Nhlambeni. The meat-eating competition in Gege.

Bheki Ngwenya and displaying some illegal and dangerous electricity connections at the Gege roadshow.

Smart Dlamini

Regional Manager - South Sam Mzileni addressing Timphisini residents.

EC has hosted a number of roadshows in The roadshows have assisted in educating customers selected parts of the country since the on the rolled-out prepaid system, reliable power supply, Sbeginning of the year. This is in an effort to billing, quotations for new installations and saving

reach out to its customers. electricity.

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SEC employees listening attentively to presentations at Timphisini.

Bongiwe, Jabulani, Simanga and Nolwazi at the Timphisini Inkhundla.

ABOVE & BELOW: Cha-cha-racha Dance Group entertaining guests at Timphisini.

RIGHT: Marketing Officer Kenneth Zwane with a Gege resident before awarding him a prize.SEC employees introducing themselves to Gege residents.

Bongiwe (r) joins a Timphisini resident in dance. SEC’s Bheki Ngwenya, Nok’thula Magagula and Bheki Khumalo. SEC employees posing for the camera at Nhlambeni.

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owadays environmental issues such as modern society is dependent on electricity. So far, climate change and resource depletion there has not been any close substitute for electricity. Nare becoming more apparent. Electricity provides comfort. Its demand is growing.

A two degree rise in temperature may represent a However, the generation of electricity from fossil minute and it could be hard to detect the difference. fuels results in the emission of gases such as carbon This is enough to affect the entire world. As dioxide, sulphur dioxide and oxides, which contribute humankind we need to work together to resolve the to global warming and climate change. challenges of climate change.

The Swaziland Electricity Company is trying hard As a company we import about 80% of our electricity to contribute greatly to environmental and energy from South Africa and Mozambique, where it is conservation. That being the case, it remains that generated from fossil fuels such as coal. When coal we all can make a significant impact in the fight is burnt in the thermal power plants it releases against climate change. environmental-unfriendly gases, which causes global and rainfall patterns change, crop yields are

Effects of climate change warming and climate change. As a country we need expected to drop significantly. Water The effects of climate change can be seen around to reduce our energy consumption to save coal and availability for irrigation, hydro-power

the world already and they come in different forms, minimise climate change.generation and drinking will be less such as in; predictable because rains will be more Plants and animals - changes in rainfall What can we dovariable.

and temperatures will affect many animal and plant species around the world. Some Change of lifestyles can play a major role in Diseases - changes in climate are likely to species might be unable to adapt quickly minimising the effects of climate change, and below lengthen the transmission seasons of enough and habitats might not be available are some recommendable practices;important vector-borne diseases such as for them to move into. If global temperatures malaria and to alter their geographic range.rise by two degrees Celsius, 30 percent of Achieve immediate emissions reduction by all living species could be threatened by an increasing the efficiency with which Rain Forests - large areas of the Amazon increased risk of extinction. electricity is used. and central African rain forests could be lost

if climate change results in big decreases in Extreme weather - global warming Reducing greenhouse gas emissions.rainfall in these areas. This will add up to the

results in extreme weather events such as Improving efficiency of the existing plants vast acres of forests already being cut down severe floods, droughts and tropical storms. including highly efficient combined heat and to clear land for agriculture. These forests These are likely to become more frequent power systems at suitable sites. currently absorb large amounts of carbon and dangerous. Such extreme weather dioxide that would otherwise be released events are likely to become more severe in Expanding deployment of renewable into the atmosphere.the coming decades. generation technologies, including biomass

co-firing of coal plants. SEC and climate change Food and water - as temperatures increase Every aspect of a productive activity and daily life in

Fighting climate change

We need to reduce our consumption to minimise climate change

SEC News

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SEC leads 2011 Earth Hour campaign

SEC News

18

uring the Earth Hour campaign on Saturday campaign, the Swaziland Electricity Company (SEC) March. This is aimed at raising awareness about the the 26th of March, electricity consumers in measured the consumption of electricity at its national effects of climate change. Following the success of DSwaziland saved 13.04 megawatt hours of control centre in Mbabane. The Earth Hour is a global this year's Earth Hour campaign, the Managing

electricity, which was a 9.6% reduction from the initiative, which requires all energy consumers to turn Director Pius Gumbi has implored the public continue average daily usage in the kingdom. off their non-essential lights and electronic appliances using electricity responsibly.

As part of its full support for the Earth Hour from 8:30pm to 9:30pm. on the last Saturday of ...continues on next page

Part of the guests who attended the Earth Hour commemoration at the PSPF Building in Mbabane.

SEC’s Mdee Magagula pictured with a friend. Even the young ones attended with family members. Thuli and Sifiso.

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19

Gumbi stressed that SEC is not focusing on electrification project. backgrounds. Over 200 people gathered at the generating profits at the expense of the lives of its The MD stated that SEC took a leading role in the magnificent Public Service Pensions Fund (PSPF) customers in general and, in particular, the only campaign upon realising the high rate at which Building in Mbabane.planet that humankind has a responsibility to natural resources such as coal and oil got depleted SEC mobilized an intensive media campaign to preserve. in the production of energy. sensitize the nation about the Earth Hour initiative.

SEC has about 97 000 customers, and the number It was for the first time that SEC commemorated is growing daily with the implementation of the rural the Earth Hour with partners from varied

...continued from previous page

SEC’s James, Ephraim and Mduduzi

Environmental Health Sciences students also took part.

It was all smiles. Security personnel also took sometime to save the environment

Candlelight to save the environment. Guests listening to speeches prior to the start of the Earth Hour.

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New AppointmentsIn an effort to improve internal communication and subsequent to the conclusion 2. TECHNICAL SERVICES MANAGER of the recruitment processes, management would like to announce the following appointments: Mr. Patrick Mnandi Mathunjwa, who has served the

company as Business Analyst, has been appointed Technical Services Manager effective 1st April 2011. In this

1. REGIONAL MANAGER - SOUTH new position, Mathunjwa will be a member of the Executive Management.

Mr. Sam Mzileni, who was serving as Marketing Manager, He has over 20 years experience working with SEC and has been appointed Regional Manager - South effective 1st most recently he has been involved with the corporate April 2011. He has vast experience in the marketing sector strategic planning and monitoring, as well as providing and has a proven track record of dealing efficiently with input and advice to the company to achieve its desired people. After joining SEC in November 2010, Mzileni business objectives. brought commercial savvy to his role as Marketing Manager Mathunjwa's qualifications include a BA (Honours) Accounting and Finance as and the ability to drive and develop business processes. well as a Masters of Business Administration (MBA). Mzileni’s qualifications include a Master of Business He also holds membership with the Association of Chartered Certified Administration (MBA), Bachelor of Commerce Degree – Accountants (ACCA) and the Swaziland Institute of Accountants. Marketing and a Diploma in Commerce. He is a member of the Marketing Association of South Africa.

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Every @ 9:15 - 10:15p.m.FRIDAY LIVE

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Catch our recorded interview every Friday afternoon

from 3:45 - 4p.m.

SBIS 1

SEC News

21

MAKHOSONKHE SHABANGU joined SEC with effect from the 1st of February 2011. He holds a Bsc. Degree in Environmental Health Management and a Diploma in Environmental Health Sciences from UNISWA. He also possesses an Advanced Certificate in SHERQ International Auditing from SAQI. Makhosonkhe has sound knowledge of the Swaziland Environmental Authority (SEA) Acts as well as knowledge of ISO 14001, ISO 18000 and NOSA Systems. He began his career as an Environmental Health Inspector with the Ministry of Health in 2004, where he was on internship. During the same year, he joined RSSC as a Trainee. Between 2007 and 2010, he was employed by EMSA Environmental and Social Consultants as an Assistant Environmental Monitoring Officer. His main duties include conducting environmental assessments and comprehensive mitigation plans for different developments around the country. Before joining SEC Makhosonkhe worked for ESD Consultants as an Environment Officer, where he was responsible for doing inspections for proposed projects before preparing IEEs and CMP. He has experience in issues associated with the environment and has a proven track record of dealing efficiently with people.

MEFIKA THWALA joined SEC with effect from the 1st of February 2011. He holds a Diploma in Architectural Technology from the Durban University of Technology. Mefika is proficient in various computer softwares, including AutoCAD and ArcCAD (All versions). He has vast experience in Architecture, two years of which were spent in the Republic of South Africa. Mefika has extensive experience as an Architectural Technologist in both the Public and Private Sectors. He has been exposed to a wide range of projects that include Residential Developments, Commercial and Community Developments. For the past years he worked as an Architectural Technologist for PGA Architects, based in Durban. He was primarily involved in the refurbishment and upgrading of the SARS (South African Revenue Services) building in Durban, where he was responsible for developing drawings. Before joining SEC, Mefika was employed by Mbabane-based architects, International. He has also been involved in a number of Commercial Projects for large corporations both local and in South African. He has an impressive experience in the drawing office and has a proven record of performing draughtsman duties.

BONGANI MDLULI joined SEC with effect from the 1st of March 2011 as a Legal & Compliance Officer. He holds a BA (LAW) LLB Degree from the

University of Swaziland. Bongani served his articles with Ben J Simelane & Associates from 2006. In 2008 he passed his bar examination and was

admitted as an Attorney of the High Court of Swaziland. Before joining SEC Bongani worked for Magagula Attorneys as a Professional Assistant and

specialised in litigation. Some of his duties included debt collection as well as handling cases starting at CMAC level up to the Industrial Court.He has exposure in dealing with legal matters and has a proven track record.

SABELO NKAMBULE joined SEC with effect from the 1st of March 2011 as the Regional Manager. Sabelo holds a Masters in Business Leadership from the University of South Africa, a Bachelor of Commerce Degree majoring in Marketing, and a Diploma in Commerce from the University of Swaziland. He began his professional career in 1999 employed by African Alliance Swaziland as a Senior Consultant/Operations Officer, until 2003. He then joined SPTC as a Regional Manager where some of his duties included ensuring that agency agreements were adhered to, full compliance with operational standards, improving efficiencies in control and service delivery systems, ensuring continuous customer focus by staff, maintaining customer relations and developing staff, among others. Before joining SEC, Sabelo was still with SPTC as a Support Services Manager responsible for implementing and managing new businesses in line with Swazi Posts' one stop vision, evaluating the performance of current services and maintaining customer relations with existing customers in order to grow the business. He has vast experience in customer service and has a proven track record in dealing efficiently with people.

New Employees

SEC News

22

LOADING SUCCESSFULLY VIA 8888 SETTLING OF DEBT VIA VOUCHERS

WHAT TO DO AFTER LOSING A TOKEN?

Here is how you can ensure that your voucher is loaded successfully via 8888;Prepaid customers are encouraged to send sms voucher requests to 8888 during off peak sms periods, which is from 12noon till 6p.m. and between 10p.m. and 6a.m.

This will enable you to get quicker service provided you send correctly (i.e. you follow the correct sending format).

For example, if you owe the minimum monthly service charge of E55 and you If customers encounter problems during the off peak periods then they must call our happen to buy two separate vouchers of E50 denomination each, say voucher A and Toll Free 800 9000. Please be patient with your sms and send one at a time. voucher B.

You then send voucher A to 8888, the system will say 'try a larger amount'. You will then attempt to top up and send voucher B to 8888 hoping the E55 minimum service

In case a 8888 reply sms for a token is mistakenly deleted OR a token slip (from MPOS) is lost, charge will be deducted and some units to come back but, instead the system will DON'T STRESS. Just dial 800 9000 at least after an hour of that MPOS purchase or voucher again return a message 'try a larger amount'. reply, quote your meter number and you will have your 20 digit number token.

This is because the system currently does not recognise that you have sent E100 However, it's a different case with your voucher PIN. Once you lose it or cannot see properly 'worth' vouchers as it treats each transaction separate and independent. The one or more digits, we cannot access it. It is CONFIDENTIAL to you like any other pin or solution is to buy a single denomination voucher of E100 or more before sending to password. Visit the vendor where you bought it. 8888 to settle your E55 debt.

We have the following voucher denominations: E25, E50, E100 (out of stock for now until June), E150, E200 and E300. In case a customer has a debt amount (either fixed charge or general debt) above a certain denomination; the customer must buy a voucher above the debt, not to buy 2 denominations, because 8888 accepts and recognises one voucher at a time.

Customers converted from postpaid into the prepaid system will only have the E55 monthly service fee deducted the following month. This will be after the customer has been installed onto prepaid, and not on the first month of conversion.

This means that if you were converted into prepaid in the month of April 2011 then you will not be charged E55 for the month of April, but only in the following month, May 2011.

WHEN TO EXPECT E55 SERVICE FEE?

USING PREPAID VOUCHERS

To get the meter number when your card has been misplaced, press the following on the Customer Interface Unit (CIU):

Press: 100

Actraris

HOW TO GET YOUR METER NUMBER?

Prepaid Tips

Press: #4#

Conlog

If there is no power, press i for 4 seconds

Landis & Gyr

Press: i025NOTE: On the Plc model, PRESS i00000

SEC News

23

I Have Just Been Converted To Prepaid, What Charged For The Monthly E55 Minimum Service Should I Do? Charge?

When Are Bills Payable?

Why The Minimum Service Charge Because I Am On Prepaid

What If I Doubt My Meter Readings?

How does SEC do Its Billing?

Can I Close Or Deactivate My Account Temporarily?

I Will Be Away For Quite Some time, Will I Still Be

one.h) Units consumed and charges payable.i) Amount due, and date due.

The SEC contractor should have left 30 units installed in Yes you will still be charged the minimum service charge the meter which you will have to pay for on activation. which will accumulate and you will have to settle it on You can call the SEC Toll Free line 8009000 to get the your return. The minimum E55 service charge will be steps that you should take. However, you can do the used to maintain and service the idle infrastructure which Electricity bills are due and payable within 15 days from the following; is susceptible to weather elements or incidents. date of the bill. Any bills outstanding after the due date may

lead to the disconnection of the supply to the concerned Go to the nearest SEC Revenue with the premises without any further warning. You have the right to meter card that was left by the SEC contractor query your bill at your nearest SEC Revenue Office. You and, as well as, your last bill can follow up your case with the departmental revenue

accountants at the Manzini Regional Offices, Siteki When you get to the SEC Revenue centre you The minimum service charge (currently E55 for domestic Regional Offices and Mbabane Regional Offices.can request to be 'activated', that is, to be customers) is necessary for ensuring that we maintain enabled to buy electricity units and service the infrastructure that delivers power to you.

This charge was approved by the Swaziland Energy If you are found to be owing then speak to the Regulatory Authority in a transparent process.Revenue Consultant and make arrangements If you have any reason to believe that your meter is not to settle at once or in instalments registering correctly then you may give SEC a written

notice and request for the meter to be tested. The Buy units and request to get some brochures For customers not on prepaid and on conventional requirements are as follows;(on tariffs, electricity saving, prepaid vendor list metering, electricity bills are processed monthly, using the You pay E150 and SEC's Technicians and prepaid meters. meter readings as captured. The following information is will test the meter at your premises

given in the consumer's bill;a) Customer's name, installation number, You will be refunded if the test proves the meter is address and account number. indeed registering incorrectly. The meter is b) Statement date and tariff category. deemed to be registering within the statutory

SEC does not allow temporal account deactivation or c) Date of meter reading limits of 2.5% fast and 3.5% slowsuspensions. If you are away the normal minimum d) Date up to which credits are includedservice charges will still continue to apply. They will e) Previous balance, any adjustments effected, If after testing the meter, SEC is satisfied that it is accumulate and you will have to settle them. as well as payments. not registering correctly, a reasonable

f) Meter number estimate of the units supplied is made and the g) Current meter reading as well as the previous account for that month is based on such estimate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

I have just been converted to Prepaid, What should I do?

I will be away for quite some time, will I still be

charged the monthly E55 minimum service charge?

Can I close or deactivate my account temporarily?

Why the minimum service charge because I am onPrepaid?

How does SEC do its billing?

When are bills payable?

What if I doubt my meter reading?

SEC News

24

Stand-by button consumes energyMake sure your appliance is switched off at the power button

Why pay for 24 hours usage when you are not using your appliance?

Replace conventional bulbs with Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL)bulbs where possibleCFL bulbs give the same light while using a fifth of the power and last longerAlways switch off lights when you leave a room

Don’t open fridge door unnecessarilyEnsure that door seals are intactSwitch off the fridge when it is empty or when goingon holidayLet hot food cool down before placing it in the fridgeDefrost the fridge regularly Leave space between items on shelves, this allowscool air to circulate more easily

STEREO/TV/DVD/ COMPUTERS

LIGHT BULBS

FRIDGE

Use a pressure cooker when preparing food thatnormally takes a long time to cookConsider buying a stove with a convection ovenThe size of the pot should match the size of the stove plateUse cooking utensils with flat bottoms and tight coversDo not use grill compartment to make toastDon’t use a stove to light a cigarette

Defrost food before cooking in microwaveOnly use a microwave to cook small medium quantities of foodCompare cooking times of packaging and use the method that takes the least time and power

Use electricity wisely... and here is how

ELECTRIC STOVE

Only boil the amount of water that you needKeep your kettle’s element clean of chlorinebuild-up by boiling vinegar

Why pay for boiling a full kettle of waterif you only need a cup?

KETTLE

MICROWAVE

SEC News

25

The Inaugural SEC Golf Day

On Thursday 14 April, 2011 our company hosted close to 100 golfers in the SEC Inaugural Golf Day held at the Royal Swazi Sun. The event attracted scores of executives from the corporate sector. Jackson Mabizela scooped the first prize which was a flat screen TV.

SEC’s RegionalManager - South, Sam Mzileni.

Ambassador of the Republic of China on TaiwanPeter Tsai, SEC Board Chairman S’thofeni Ginindza, Board Member Tim Nhleko, Central Bank AssistantGovernor Phil Mnisi and PWC Managing Partner TheoMason posing before the start of the competition.

The champion Jackson Mabizela (l) receivinghis prize.

The Board Chairman taking aswing.

City Council of Mbabane CEO Gideon Mhlongo.

SEC’s Mduduzi Mtsetfwa also got a prize.Part of the action.

Central Bank Assistant Governor PhilMnisi teeing-off.

SEC News

2626

SEC flexes muscles against Eskomn Saturday 9th April, the SEC football team held a visitors proved a tough nut to crack as the match progressed. It practice match against their South African came as no surprise when they equalized in the opening minutes of Ocounterparts, Eskom. The match played at Ezulwini the second half.

Sun sports ground ended in a 1-all draw. SEC was almost buried under an avalanche of goals, but thanks to the well-oiled defence marshaled by goal-keeper Bright 'Komari'

SEC were first to score through creative midfielder Colin Bailey Nxumalo and veteran defender Nkululeko 'Hambanaye' Dlamini. midway through the first half. The match formed part of SEC's preparations for the Inter-Utility

The home team looked destined to record an easy win, but the Games hosted in Windhoek, Namibia during the Easter weekend.

Festus Maphalala exhibiting his skills.

Ephraim presents a gift to the visiting team’s official, Penny.

Part of the action. SEC’s goalkeeper making a save.

The two teams pictured before the match.A nail-bitting encounter...SEC employees watching the proceedings.