PHALABORWA – Concerned youth from Ba-Phalaborwa took to the streets on Friday, September 4, to submit a formal letter to the Speaker of the Ba-Phalaborwa Municipality, raising concerns over persistent water shortages, unemployment and a lack of transparency in municipal affairs.

In the letter, the youth expressed frustration over what they described as the continued decline in basic service delivery and limited economic opportunities for young people in the municipality.

Prolonged shortages despite constitutional right

They said residents had endured prolonged water shortages and unfulfilled promises, despite access to clean and reliable water being a basic constitutional right.

The group called on the municipality to urgently restore water services and provide a clear plan to address failing infrastructure and ensure a consistent supply across affected wards.

Calls for transparent hiring and local jobs

They also demanded fair and transparent recruitment processes, as well as more local employment opportunities for young people.

The youth further called for accountability over the municipality’s use of public funds, particularly in addressing the water crisis and unemployment.

Youth vow to keep up pressure

They warned that they would no longer remain silent while service delivery failures and a lack of economic opportunities continued to affect young people and their communities.

The letter was received and signed by Rhulani Mahesu on behalf of the speaker, who reportedly promised to provide feedback to the group within four days.