Note to Broadcasters: Please find attached soundbite in English by Keke Molutsi
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in the City of Matlosana Local Municipality will write to the Acting Municipal Manager, Mr Nelson Mongale, to demand urgent intervention following the ongoing collapse of sewer infrastructure in Ward 38.
For years, residents in this ward have been subjected to raw sewage flowing through streets and into their homes, an unacceptable situation that poses serious health and environmental risks.
Following numerous complaints received from residents, the DA conducted an oversight inspection in Ward 38. What we found was deeply concerning: large pools of raw sewage accumulating in streets and around homes, accompanied by an unbearable stench (see photos here, here, and here).
Residents further indicated that when sewer leaks are reported, municipal response times are unacceptably slow, often due to a lack of vehicles and basic tools of trade. When officials do attend, interventions are limited to temporary unblocking of pipes and manholes, with no long-term solution implemented due to the apparent absence of a maintenance plan.
It is equally concerning that municipal workers are often deployed without the necessary Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), such as masks, disinfectants, and protective gear, exposing them to hazardous conditions while carrying out their duties.
The DA is also concerned about the municipality’s continued reliance on external service providers for work that should be carried out by properly qualified municipal officials. There are reports that some contractors fail to deliver, yet still receive payment, even after abandoning sites.
Our oversight confirms that the sewer infrastructure in Ward 38 is in a state of severe disrepair and requires urgent rehabilitation and ongoing maintenance.
The failure to address basic sanitation not only undermines the dignity and health of residents but also contributes to declining public trust and a reluctance by communities to pay for services.
The DA has repeatedly engaged with the Director of Infrastructure, Mr Nelson Mongale, who has reportedly achieved poor departmental performance outcomes, yet little progress has been made. His recent appointment as Acting Municipal Manager raises further concerns about whether the necessary focus will be placed on resolving these critical service delivery failures.
The DA therefore calls on the Acting Municipal Manager to:
- Urgently implement repairs and rehabilitation of sewer infrastructure in Ward 38
- Establish a clear and sustainable maintenance plan to prevent recurring spillages
- Ensure that municipal workers are equipped with adequate tools and proper PPE
- Review the use of external contractors and enforce accountability for non-performance
The continued failure to provide adequate sanitation services places the municipality in potential contravention of the Water Services Act and violates the constitutional rights of residents to dignity and a safe environment.
Residents of Matlosana deserve safe, dignified living conditions. The DA will continue to hold the municipality accountable until meaningful and lasting solutions are implemented.