Eskom Leases Historic Steam Locomotives to Safeguard Heritage Legacy

Eskom has announced a landmark move to preserve South Africa’s rich industrial and cultural history by entering into a five-year lease agreement for its historically significant steam locomotives. The power utility confirmed that New Cape Central Railway Ltd emerged as the successful bidder to manage and operate the locomotives, ensuring their continued preservation and accessibility to the public.

Preserving Heritage Through Leasing

Instead of opting for an outright sale, Eskom chose a lease arrangement to retain custodianship of the locomotives. Eskom Group Chief Executive Dan Marokane emphasised that the decision reflects the company’s dual responsibility: not only to deliver electricity but also to protect heritage assets entrusted to it.

“By opting for a lease arrangement rather than a sale, Eskom retains custodianship of these assets, affirming its commitment to heritage preservation as a proudly South African company,” Marokane said.

Industrial Icons of the Energy Sector

The locomotives, which have powered South Africa’s energy industry for more than a century, represent a vital chapter in the country’s industrial development. Eskom Rotek Industries CEO Hector Danisa highlighted their enduring importance:

“These iconic locomotives have powered the energy industry for more than a century. This milestone demonstrates our shared commitment to preserving them and making them accessible through structured partnerships, keeping their legacy for many years to come. They form a vital part of South Africa’s industrial and cultural legacy and rich history.”

Heritage Month Handover

The handover ceremony was held at Eskom Rotek Industries and fittingly coincided with Heritage Month, celebrated under the theme “Reimagine Heritage Institutions for a New Era.” The timing underscores Eskom’s recognition of the locomotives as more than just relics of the past, but as living testaments to South Africa’s innovation, engineering, and resilience.

Compliance With Heritage Standards

Eskom explained that the locomotives were leased to a qualified heritage organisation, ensuring that their operation and upkeep would meet national heritage standards. The process was conducted in close consultation with both the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA) and the Heritage Railway Association of South Africa, who provided oversight and guidance.

From Museum Relics to Living History

The treasured collection was originally housed at the South African National Rail and Steam Museum in Krugersdorp, which later became defunct. Although initially intended for restoration and public exhibition, the locomotives had been in limbo after being retrieved from the closed museum.

With the new lease agreement in place, these locomotives are now set for a new lease on life, accessible to rail enthusiasts, historians, and the broader public. The partnership ensures they will not only be preserved but also continue to operate as functional heritage assets.

Significance for Future Generations

By keeping the locomotives in operation under structured stewardship, Eskom hopes to inspire future generations to value both industrial heritage and engineering excellence. This initiative demonstrates how heritage preservation can be integrated into broader corporate responsibilities, aligning history with progress.

The agreement ensures that South Africa’s steam locomotives, once central to powering its energy and transport industries, will remain a proud symbol of innovation, resilience, and cultural pride.