SAHRC warns of sewage crisis affecting North West residents’ health

The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has raised concerns over a sewage crisis that is adversely affecting the health and quality of life of residents in several North West communities. This issue is widespread and violates residents' constitutional right to a healthy environment.

Affected people have described the stench as unbearable and detrimental to respiratory health. While experts acknowledge the potential for airborne contaminants from waste-water to impact breathing, there is a lack of comprehensive research on the long-term effects of raw sewage exposure in residential areas.

Kgomotso Makabanyane, a 65-year-old resident of Motlhabeng Village in Mahikeng, shared that prolonged exposure to raw sewage led to severe breathing problems, which were later diagnosed as a respiratory condition. She claims that the unbearable smell prevented her from even eating inside her home due to the overwhelming odor and the chemicals released into the waste-water.

Thato Wa Magogodi, a community leader in Seweding, Mahikeng, emphasized the need for health interventions following the sewage spillage. He warned that the community has been exposed to dangerous biohazards containing deadly pathogens.

Sizwe Nkambule, an expert from the South African Medical Research Council, stated that there is a potential risk of respiratory illnesses among the general public due to exposure to waste-water. He explained that aerosols or airborne dispersion of biological contaminants in wastewater can occur during treatment processes, leading to the suspension of pathogenic micro-organisms in the air, which can be inhaled by nearby communities.

Shirley Mlombo, the provincial manager of the SAHRC, highlighted the systemic and recurring nature of sewage spillages in the North West. The commission has conducted an investigation into service delivery challenges and made recommendations to municipalities. However, they continue to receive complaints about sewage issues, indicating that the problem persists across the province.