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Human Settlements, Water and Sanitation Minister Lindiwe Sisulu has reiterated the need for Sedibeng Water to speedily implement solutions to address water challenges in QwaQwa as per her directive.  

As such, Sedibeng Water, as directed by the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS), in conjunction with Maluti-A-Phofung Municipality are working around the clock to ensure that both short and medium-term directives of the Minister are implemented. 

To this end, 2 000 more water tanks (JoJos) have been procured, with an intention to meet Minister Sisulu’s target of 5 000 tanks in the long run. Of the 2 000 tanks procured, 1 000 of them have a 5 000 litres capacity, while the other 1 000 is of 10 000 litres capacity.

Thus far, 132 water tanks have been delivered to QwaQwa residents. It is anticipated that local service providers will be employed to build tank stands, to assist with employment opportunities and poverty alleviation in the area. 

“When I was in QwaQwa in January, I directed Sedibeng Water to look for residents who have the necessary skills to come forward as part of the interventions addressing water scarcity issues,” Minister Sisulu said.

“I am pleased to learn that this is being implemented and that locals are afforded the necessary opportunity to participate in implementing solutions,” she said.

In addition to this, the recruitment process of eighteen (18) labourers has been concluded. This includes the placement of two Community Liaison Officers.

Occupational medical assessments and the issuing of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) have been completed.

As part of the medium-term implementation, the clearing and digging of the pipe route from Comet to Ha-Rankopane has also commenced.

Minister Sisulu has urged members of the community in QwaQwa and surrounds to use water available to them sparingly and also called for regular hand washing with soap to prevent the spread of COVID-19. 

As the President has directed, all of government, the DWS included, has a responsibility to ensure there is an adequate response to COVID-19. Therefore the continued efforts of Sedibeng Water to bring Minister Sisulu’s directive to fruition is paramount, so as to reduce the possibility of further spreading COVID-19.

“The pandemic poses a serious threat to people in disadvantaged communities. Given this, I have committed my Departments to respond to the urgent needs of people through the provision of water and sanitation as we are confronted with a possible spread,” Minister Sisulu said.

Issued by the Department of Water & Sanitation