Eskom enters into a lease agreement for its historical steam locomotives to preserve heritage
Monday, 15 September 2025: Eskom has finalised theleasing process for its historical steam locomotives following an open tender process that commenced on 18 May 2024, for interested parties to lease five historically significant steam locomotives, located at Rosherville in Gauteng, for a period of five years. Today, Eskom announced New Cape Central Railway Ltd as the successful bidder during a handover ceremony at Eskom Rotek Industries.
“At Eskom, we acknowledge our duty not only to deliver electricity but also to safeguard the valuable heritage assets entrusted to us. 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,” remarked Eskom Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane.
The handover of the locomotives coincides with the national call to “Reimagine Heritage Institutions for a New Era,” a theme for this year’s Heritage Month celebration.
Eskom has made a decision to lease these locomotives to a qualified heritage organisation, ensuring their preservation and continued operation. This process was conducted in close consultation with the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA) and the Heritage Railway Association of South Africa (HRASA), who provided guidance to ensure compliance with national heritage standards.
The treasured collection of these locomotives was once housed at the South African National Rail and Steam Museum (SANRASM) in Krugersdorp. Originally intended for restoration and public exhibition, these locomotives were retrieved from the now-defunct museum. Eskom has now entered into this lease agreement for these locomotives, thereby securing a new future for these pieces of South African rail history.
“These iconic locomotives have powered the energy industry for more than a century. This milestone demonstrate our shared commitment to persevering 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,” explained Eskom Rotek Industries Chief Executive Officer, Hector Danisa.
Eskom turned 102 years old on 1 March this year and remains steadfast in its commitment to providing sustainable electricity, stimulating economic growth and improving the quality of life for the people of South Africa and the region. We supply around 90% of South Africa’s electricity and 30% of Africa’s power.
ENDS
