Learners and kitchen staff fall sick as sewage surrounds Soshanguve school feeding scheme

Over five years, more than 800 learners and staff at Seetsa sa Kgwedi Primary School in Soshanguve, north of Pretoria, have endured recurring sewage spills on the school grounds. Kehwile Ramaru, chairperson of the school governing body (SGB), reported to Health-e News that three learners in Grades R to 3 fell ill with stomach cramps and nausea during recent school hours.

Additionally, kitchen staff have sought treatment at Block X Clinic with symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, and fever. Although Health-e News couldn't determine if these illnesses were caused by sewage exposure, staff expressed concern about a potential link. During a visit on August 17, the school was surrounded by sewage spills, wastewater pooling, and an overpowering smell.

Flies were abundant across the school grounds. Learners and staff continued their normal routines, with some even stepping on bricks placed in sewage water to avoid walking through it. The kitchen staff member, who wished to remain anonymous, explained that conditions worsen during summer rains, causing slippery rocks, tripping hazards, and increased insect populations.

Despite parents attempting to assist in cleaning the affected areas, the sewage issue persisted, and staff had to navigate the contaminated environment while preparing meals for the learners. The school governing body claimed that blocked drains also impacted learner attendance, and the school has repeatedly reported the blockages to the City of Tshwane for assistance.

However, the problems continued, causing health hazards and leading to the school paying private service providers when the sewage issues were unresolved.