The Pikoko informal Settlement, situated near the Ruimsig Golf Club and bordering the area between Ruimsig and Muldersdrift, continues to face severe socio-economic challenges, including poor service delivery, crime and pollution.

Earlier in February, an oversight visit confirmed that residents are living in squalid conditions.

The area is heavily overcrowded and lacks proper sanitation, regular refuse removal, electricity and a reliable water supply. These conditions pose a serious health risk, while crime remains a major concern for residents.

According to Mogale City councillor Jean Kotze, a walkabout in the settlement exposed the extent of the hardship. He said large piles of waste have accumulated and foul odours linger in the air. Residents have also alleged that about 40% of occupants are undocumented foreign nationals.

“As with many informal settlements in Gauteng, the failure of relevant municipalities and provincial authorities to address illegal land invasions and worsening health conditions continues to negatively affect the environment for everyone living in and near these settlements,” Kotze said.

He added that the settlement’s encroachment onto a wetland requires an urgent environmental assessment to determine what interventions may be necessary.

Last year, Kotze stated that the Department of Home Affairs needs to conduct a census in the area and that South African residents should be relocated to areas with proper services.

“We have been informed that the City of Johannesburg will continue providing services to the settlement; Mogale City has played a minimal role, posting security guards to prevent additional shacks from being erected,” he said.

Mogale City’s Department of Human Settlements and Real Estate, which is responsible for housing and settlements, acknowledged the challenges in Pikoko, particularly the lack of adequate services.

The municipality has provided chemical toilets and waste removal services, while the City of Johannesburg supplies water.

The Krugersdorp News contacted Joburg Water’s communications officer, Nolwazi Dlahmini, who acknowledged receipt of the enquiry to provide clarity on water and sanitation services in the settlement, as the department is mainly responsible for it. However, no feedback had been received at the time of publication. The News will update readers once a response is received.