Deputy Minister Calls for Action on Mpumalanga Water Crisis

Deputy Minister Calls for Action on Mpumalanga Water Crisis

Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister Sello Seitlholo has called for urgent intervention to address the deteriorating state of wastewater infrastructure, water quality, and pollution in parts of Mpumalanga.

During an oversight visit on 15 October to Msukaligwa and Lekwa Local Municipalities, the Deputy Minister inspected the Ermelo Wastewater Treatment Works, De Vereeniging Farm, and the Vaal River in Ermelo and Standerton. He was accompanied by Gert Sibande District Municipality Mayor, Walter Mngomezulu, and Msukaligwa Local Municipality Mayor, Precious Nkosi.

Seitlholo expressed dissatisfaction with the local municipalities’ slow response to wastewater management challenges. “I understand that financial constraints may impede progress, but there seems to be a lack of urgency in tackling issues affecting water quality and the pollution of water sources,” he stated.

Highlighting South Africa’s status as a water-scarce country, the Deputy Minister stressed the need for swift action to improve water infrastructure, including wastewater management. He noted that as part of his ministerial duties, he is committed to finding solutions for water quality issues nationwide.

Seitlholo cited the recent launch of the Vaal River Anti-Pollution Forum, aimed at restoring the quality of water in the Vaal River System to acceptable standards. “I am leading this initiative, and we will not hesitate to hold accountable those who continue to discharge raw sewage into our water sources,” he warned.

The Department of Water and Sanitation is actively engaging municipalities to develop and implement corrective action plans. Seitlholo indicated that failure to execute these plans would result in criminal cases being filed against non-compliant municipalities. “It is our duty, in the interest of all South Africans, to ensure our water resources are protected from pollution,” he said, emphasising the department’s commitment to enforcing compliance.

The Deputy Minister also appealed to the public to contribute to safeguarding water resources by avoiding practices that pollute rivers. “Residents must refrain from dumping foreign objects into rivers—it is both unacceptable and irresponsible,” he urged. Seitlholo called on South Africans to take a stand against water pollution and raise awareness of the issue.

“Our raw water in the Vaal River System is severely polluted, and we all have a role to play in restoring its quality,” Seitlholo concluded, underscoring the need for collective action to preserve the country’s precious water resources.