South Africa has introduced its most severe electricity rationing in nearly five years. The debt-laden state power utility, Eskom, is at the centre of the country’s economic troubles, and has been hit by allegations of graft. Offices, shops, factories, traffic lights and private homes were hit by load shedding, or scheduled power cuts to reduce usage. Eskom spokesperson Khulu Phasiwe said the power system is severely constrained. The company said in a statement that it has unexpectedly lost six additional generating units, which have put additional strain on the system. It also pleaded for residents and businesses to use electricity sparingly. Phasiwe said the power outages are likely to continue until April. President Cyril Ramaphosa last week admitted that Eskom is in a crisis and the risks it poses to the country are great.