Note to Editors: Please find an English soundbite by Cllr Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku here
Following a range of complaints the Democratic Alliance (DA) in Johannesburg undertook an unannounced oversight visit to the Joburg Water depot in Langlaagte, amongst others. We conducted this visit after residents’ complaints, consistent delays due to a lack of material and the very worrying allegations that technicians have to buy material out of their own pocket.
Joburg Water attempted to obstruct our oversight at Langlaagte by denying us access to inspect their stores—preventing us from verifying the legitimacy of residents’ complaints regarding material shortages. This deliberate obstruction raises serious concerns about transparency and accountability within the entity.
The second engagement, and by far the most alarming, was to Kyalami Park where more than 20 businesses have not had water for 52 days. Some have to work intermittently and might have to close due the city inability to provide basic services like water.
These business owners have not been met halfway by the City of Johannesburg, no provision has been made for them to get some water at least. They pay for water, but have not been helped at all. What will the city say once they close and more people become unemployed
Despite our continued efforts to address these issues in Section 79 Committees, and by Ward councillors, these cries for help have also been ignored.
We will request the mayor to:
- Conduct a thorough engagement with businesses in the City on how the water crisis is affecting them as a matter of urgency;
- Put to table a proper logistical plan for alternative water supply for businesses in case of emergencies and especially during crises like the one we are facing right now;
- Intervene and fast track processes where businesses are able to drill boreholes; and
- To actually partner with the private sector
Mayor Morero’s speech about how we must not expect much from him, no longer holds water. Immediate and urgent intervention is required.