Note to Broadcasters: Please find attached soundbite in Afrikaans by Carin Visser
The Democratic Alliance (DA) notes with serious concern that, on Human Rights Day, many residents in the Tswaing Local Municipality are still denied access to one of the most basic constitutional rights — water.
Section 27 of the Constitution guarantees every South African the right to sufficient water, supported by the Water Services Act (108 of 1997). National standards further require that every household must have access to a reliable water source within 200 metres, with a minimum daily supply and potable quality in line with SANS 241 standards.
Yet, in towns such as Delareyville, Sannieshof, Ottosdal and Atamelang, including 32 surrounding villages, the reality is starkly different. Many communities are more often without water than with it.
In Ditshoswane, residents have reportedly been without reliable access to water for over 15 years. Similarly, villages such as Gannalaagte, Kopela and Vrischgewaagd continue to experience chronic water shortages, despite the clear constitutional and legislative obligations placed on authorities.
In Ditshoswane, residents have reportedly been without reliable access to water for over 15 years. Similarly, villages such as Gannalaagte, Kopela and Vrischgewaagd continue to experience chronic water shortages, despite the clear constitutional and legislative obligations placed on authorities.
This is not just a service delivery failure — it is a direct violation of human rights.
The Ngaka Modiri Molema Water Authority and relevant municipalities are fully aware of these ongoing failures, yet there has been little to no consequence for their continued non-compliance. Meanwhile, communities are forced to live without dignity, often exposed to unsafe conditions, including polluted water sources and inadequate sanitation.
The DA calls for:
- Immediate intervention to restore reliable water supply to affected communities
- Accountability for officials and entities failing to meet their constitutional obligations
- Transparent reporting on water infrastructure, maintenance, and turnaround plans
South Africans cannot celebrate human rights while being denied water. Access to clean, safe water is not a privilege — it is a constitutional right.
The DA will continue to fight for accountable governance that delivers basic services and restores dignity to all residents.