South African Minister of Water and Sanitation, Mr. Senzo Mchunu, supports an investigation into allegations of corruption and maladministration related to a R295 million tender granted for the renovation and improvement of the Rooiwal Waste Water Treatment Works. The plant has struggled with operational and maintenance issues, resulting in inadequate effluent treatment and contamination of the Apies River and the Leeuwkraal Dam. This pollution has negatively impacted the water quality in the Leeuwkraal Dam, compromising the drinkability of the water supplied to the Hammanskraal area. The Special Investigating Unit will probe the allegations and the City of Tshwane will address water quality and supply problems.
Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu recently visited residents of Big Five Hlabisa Municipality in uMkhanyakude District to discuss the ongoing efforts to restore their water supply. The Minister aimed to assess the progress of refurbishment and upgrading of water schemes in Big Five Hlabisa and Mtubatuba local municipalities. These efforts primarily focused on communities facing significant water challenges in the district.