Eskom, a case study in reform

Stable governance, executive unity and some operational freedom allowed the state-owned entity to succeed, show SOEs need not decline

- Busani Ngcaweni

ills Soko, professor of international business at Wits Business School, recently shared a statement from Eskom celebrating breakthroughs in the performance of the state-owned electricity utility that led to honours at the Black Business Quarterly Awards.

In the accompanying commentary, Soko praised the chief executive, Dan Marokane: “Congratulations, and well done, Dan Marokane. This is a richly deserved accolade and recognition. You are a superb engineer with an impeccable academic pedigree. An engineer who also boasts a long track record of being a top-class business executive. Eskom has experienced an immense turnaround under your leadership and your executive team. Keep up the excellent work. We are very proud of you, my dear brother.”

The Eskom statement celebrated Marokane's recognition with the Public Sector Visionary Award at the BBQ Awards 2025. Presented by Black Business Quarterly, the award honoured his leadership in stabilising the national grid, restoring public trust and advancing transformation within the organisation.

Eskom highlighted that under his direction the electricity utility has reinforced its commitment to energy security while positioning itself as a sustainable and competitive enterprise. His leadership has also advanced socioeconomic initiatives and fostered a culture of accountability, resilience and excellence across the organisation.

The statement noted that employees, known as Eskom guardians, have been inspired by his vision, which delivered a reliable electricity supply of 96% in the last financial year and 97% in the current year. These outcomes were presented as vital to national progress and economic growth.