Note to Broadcasters: Please find attached soundbites in English and Setswana by Nelio Nhacuangue
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Rustenburg is deeply concerned about the poor quality of water being supplied to residents in Phatsima, which poses a serious risk to public health.
Recent on-site evidence confirms that the water is heavily discoloured, brown in appearance, and contains visible foam. This is not only unacceptable but potentially dangerous for residents who rely on this water for drinking, cooking, and basic hygiene.
Access to clean and safe drinking water is a fundamental constitutional right. The current conditions in Phatsima undermine the dignity, health, and wellbeing of residents and point to serious failures in water treatment, bulk supply management, or possible contamination within the system.
The DA has formally written to Magalies Water, as the bulk supplier, as well as to the Executive Mayor and the Municipal Manager of Rustenburg Local Municipality, demanding urgent intervention and accountability.
Magalies Water must immediately conduct comprehensive water quality testing on the water supplied to Phatsima and make the results publicly available. Residents have a right to know whether the water they are consuming is safe.
In addition, urgent corrective measures must be implemented to ensure that only potable water is supplied. This must include a full investigation into the source of the contamination and the implementation of long-term solutions to prevent recurrence.
Rustenburg Local Municipality must also ensure proper reticulation, ongoing monitoring of water quality within the distribution system, and clear communication with affected residents.
Given the serious health risks involved, the DA will escalate this matter to the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) to ensure that the constitutional rights of residents are protected and that all responsible parties are held accountable.
Residents of Phatsima cannot be expected to live with unsafe water. Clean, reliable drinking water is not a privilege — it is a basic human right.
The DA will continue to pursue this matter until residents receive the safe and dignified services they deserve.