Dannhauser residents are facing worsening water shortages after the theft of a community borehole pump in December.

The pump was stolen shortly before Christmas and, despite several leads reportedly being provided to the police, no arrests have been made and the equipment has not been recovered.

The borehole, valued at R85 000, was funded through donations raised by Helping Hands, former residents and the Sabri Ashrafi Relief Fund. It was officially opened by then mayor Bongani Hadebe in May 2024.

Residents call for urgent assistance

Farzanah Dookie of Helping Hands, who helped pioneer the project, said the loss has left the community extremely frustrated.

“With all the water cuts we receive via Amajuba District Municipality, the Southpark borehole at least allowed residents to collect water. Now we have nothing, and water tankers are rarely seen here,” she said.

She added that residents have long called for the water licence to be returned to the local municipality, arguing that the district municipality lacks the capacity to ensure a reliable supply.

Dookie said it would be extremely difficult to raise funds again to replace the stolen pump and appealed to potential benefactors to assist.

For more information, contact Farzanah on 060 762 8423.