The recent cholera outbreak in Hammanskraal, which has claimed the lives of at least 15 individuals, has shed light on the political instability within the Tshwane municipality.
Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation, David Mahlobo, highlighted that the frequent changes in Tshwane’s executive government have hindered the development and implementation of effective intergovernmental plans to address the water crisis. The municipality has issued a health warning, urging residents in Hammanskraal to avoid consuming tap water.
Mahlobo expressed concerns over the coalition governance structure, a relatively new phenomenon in South Africa, that has introduced significant instability to Tshwane. The constant reshuffling of officials within the municipality creates an environment of uncertainty, making it challenging to establish sustainable solutions to water contamination.
National government interventions have been implemented multiple times to address the issues in Tshwane, with the municipality even being declared a failing water service authority.
The Tshwane municipality has repeatedly failed to implement a comprehensive plan proposed by the national government to mitigate water contamination within its systems. Mahlobo stressed the need for a court order to ensure the binding nature of the plan, regardless of changes in the municipality’s leadership.
This measure would prevent any incoming officials from dismissing or disregarding the agreed-upon plan, safeguarding the continuity of efforts to address the water crisis.
The political turmoil within Tshwane poses a significant obstacle to resolving the ongoing water crisis in Hammanskraal and the wider city. A concerted effort is needed to establish stable governance structures, implement effective plans, and ensure that the provision of clean and safe water remains a top priority.