Sewage Crisis in Nyakallong despite court ruling and government intervention

In Nyakallong, a township in the Free State, residents continue to face a sewage crisis despite a High Court ruling, intervention by the South African Human Rights Commission, and government administration of the area. The issue has persisted for almost two years since the SAHRC found the Matjhabeng Local Municipality in violation of residents' rights and health through sewage pollution.

In its 2024 report, the SAHRC advised relocating residents near the Voëlpan Dam and repairing the sewage infrastructure. However, little progress has been made since 2023 when a South African municipality was placed under administration due to persistent service delivery problems. These problems were highlighted by the Free State High Court, which found the municipality in serious breach of its constitutional duties to provide sustainable services and maintain a safe, healthy environment.

The municipality, under provincial government administration since June 2025, plans to refurbish the wastewater treatment works to address the sewage crisis. But residents are frustrated, with some seeking help from the Public Protector, who has stated that the municipality has not followed the SAHRC's recommendations.