Matjhabeng mayor explains why sewage has taken over the streets of Welkom

Matjhabeng Local Municipality's mayor, Thanduxolo Khalipha, has addressed the sewage crisis plaguing Welkom and five surrounding towns. As the mayor for the past five years, Khalipha has declared the municipality a disaster zone due to sewage spillages. The problem is so severe that schools cannot use their sports grounds as they are inundated with raw sewage.

In his initial months as mayor, Khalipha alerted both national and provincial governments about the municipality's poor condition. Independent assessments revealed that 54 out of 57 pump stations and 11 out of 13 sewage treatment plants have been destroyed. Following the intervention from the national government, 22 pump stations have been repaired, and the municipality anticipates complete eradication of sewage spills by 2028.

However, Khalipha estimates that resolving the sewer infrastructure issues will cost taxpayers over R4 billion, surpassing the municipality's annual budget.

Another pressing issue Khalipha discovered upon assuming his role was a shortage of waste removal trucks. He has since procured 28 additional trucks and repaired six, resulting in more than 40 trucks for the municipality. Khalipha emphasized the significance of regular waste collection, instructing the management to ensure adherence to work schedules and educating residents against dumping waste after collection.

The municipality is currently in debt to power supplier Eskom and water provider Vaal Central, owing substantial amounts. Khalipha has initiated a payment plan with Vaal Central, dedicating at least R30 million monthly to repay the debt. Additionally, the municipality aims to alleviate debt by implementing smart meters for residents to pay for their consumed water and electricity.

The municipality's water infrastructure study indicates a 49% loss of clean water through leaks, primarily attributed to aging infrastructure. To replace outdated water systems, the municipality requires over R2 billion. Over the next five years, Khalipha projects that the municipality will replace its old water infrastructure.