Note to Editors: Please find attached English, Afrikaans and Sesotho soundbites by Cllr Nicky van Wyk. See attached picture here.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Mantsopa has escalated the ongoing sewer crisis in Manyatseng to the Infrastructure Committee and formally submitted it to the Council to secure an approved budget and binding resolution for urgent intervention.
The situation has deteriorated to the point that community members have been forced to dig trenches themselves to redirect the overflowing sewage and prevent stagnant pools from forming in residential areas.
This is not only unacceptable but also a serious public health hazard. Raw sewage flowing through streets and collecting near homes exposes families, particularly children and the elderly, to dangerous bacteria, infections, and environmental contamination. The dignity, safety, and well-being of residents are being compromised daily.
Access to proper sanitation is not a privilege; it is a basic human right and a fundamental municipal responsibility. When residents are compelled to take matters into their own hands to manage sewer flow, it reflects a critical failure in service delivery and oversight. Communities should never have to resort to such measures to protect their health and surroundings.
Leadership at the ward level plays a crucial role in ensuring that urgent service delivery matters are escalated, monitored, and addressed without delay. Communities deserve visible, accountable, and responsive representation, especially during crises that directly impact health and safety.
Proactive engagement, ongoing communication with residents, and firm escalation to relevant municipal departments are essential components of effective leadership.
The residents of Manyatseng deserve urgent action, transparent communication, and a clear plan to resolve the sewer crisis permanently. Temporary measures are not enough. Sustainable solutions must be implemented to prevent recurrence and restore dignity to the affected community.
We therefore call on the responsible ward leadership and municipal authorities to treat this matter with the seriousness it warrants and to provide immediate assistance to the residents of Manyatseng. The health and safety of the community cannot be compromised any longer.