Eskom warns that unpaid municipal debt could rise to R358 billion by 2031 if decisive interventions are not implemented. The warning focuses on persistent non-payment by municipalities, which continues to put pressure on Eskom’s finances and overall financial sustainability.
The outlets agree that municipal debt is a central factor in Eskom’s financial challenges. Both reports highlight that the problem is ongoing and that additional measures are needed to prevent further accumulation of debt. While the reporting frames the risk in slightly different terms—one emphasizing the need for “decisive interventions” and the other citing a ministerial warning—the central message is consistent: continued non-payment by municipalities accelerates Eskom’s exposure and could lead to a sharp increase in the total outstanding amount over time.
