Note to Editors: Please find attached English and Afrikaans soundbites by Cllr Carina Serfontein and Sesotho soundbite by David Masoeu MPL.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) will submit formal follow-up questions to the Ngwathe Local Municipality and escalate the matter through Council oversight to ensure the implementation of sustainable, long-term water solutions in Koppies Extension 5.
We note that running water was restored to parts of Koppies Extension 5 on 24 April 2026, following the DA’s call for urgent solutions on 22 March 2026.
This development came more than a month after the DA formally called for intervention, and only after sustained pressure was applied.
While the restoration of water is welcomed, it is clear that this was a reactive response, rather than the result of proper planning and consistent service delivery by the Ngwathe Local Municipality.
Residents of Koppies Extension 5 have endured unreliable or no access to running water for more than three years. The fact that water can be restored under pressure confirms that solutions are possible, but they are not being implemented proactively.
Access to water is a basic human right, not something that should depend on political pressure or crisis response.
The DA calls for:
- Sustained and reliable running water supply.
- Immediate implementation of long-term, permanent solutions.
- Proper maintenance of infrastructure and equipment.
- Clear, consistent communication during water outages, including contingency plans.
The events between 22 March and 24 April clearly demonstrate that pressure was needed to prompt action.
Residents cannot continue to live in a system where services are only delivered after intervention and public pressure.
The DA will continue to fight for consistent, dignified and reliable service delivery for all residents.