Minister Mchunu to meet Sol Plaatje Municipality to assess state of water and sanitation
The Minister of Water and Sanitation, Mr Senzo Mchunu, joined by Deputy Ministers, Mr David Mahlobo and Ms Judith Tshabalala are scheduled to meet with Sol Plaatje Local Municipality in Kimberley on Thursday, 27 July 2023, in a quest to find long lasting solutions to current water and sanitation challenges in the area. The discussions are expected to zoom into the state of water and sanitation in the Northern Cape province, with particular focus on the challenges of Sol Plaatje Local Municipality as a Water Services Authority responsible for water reticulation, directives implemented by the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS), as well as progress achieved.
Through routine inspections and interactions, the DWS identified poor operation and maintenance on both water and sanitation infrastructure as major contributors to sewage spillages, water leaks and water interruptions in the municipality. Spillages of wastewater from the overflowing sewer network, pump stations and ponding also resulted in pollution in the Kamfersdam and Platfontein pans which are sources of raw water for the municipality. The municipality has an estimated 64% of water losses as non-revenue water as a result of old aging bulk and reticulation infrastructure, and its vandalism. The municipality is expected to present their state of water and sanitation, challenges and plans to respond to the current situation.
Members of the media are invited to a Media Doorstop as follows:
Date: Thursday, 27 July 2023
Venue: Garden Court, Kimberley
Time: 13h00
For media confirmations:
Amogelang Moholoeng
Cell: 082 653 1682
E-mail: MoholoengA@dws.gov.za(link sends e-mail)
Mr Sanku Tsunke
E-mail: TsunkeS@dws.gov.za(link sends e-mail)
Cell: 066 299 2915.
For more information:
Contact Wisane Mavasa
Spokesperson for the Department of Water and Sanitation
Cell: 060 561 8935
E-mail: mavasaw@dws.gov.za(link sends e-mail)
Kamogelo Mogotsi
Spokesperson for the Ministry
Cell: 076 523 0085.
Source: Government of South Africa