Mogalakwena apologises to Ext 20 residents over sewer woes
Municipal leaders have acknowledged residents’ frustrations and pledged renewed efforts to address long-standing infrastructure concerns.
MOKOPANE – Following a visit by the Premier, Dr Phophi Ramathuba and provincial leaders as part of the Service Delivery Week programme, the Mogalakwena Municipality has apologised to residents of Ext 20 for the conditions they have been forced to endure due to ongoing service delivery challenges.
The visit was attended by CoGHSTA MEC Basikopo Makamu, Health MEC Dieketseng Mashego, Mayor Ngoako Taueatsoala, senior government officials and municipal representatives.
Following the premier’s visit, the mayor, speaker Monnica Senoamadi, chief whip Abram Tsebe, the ward councillor and municipal officials embarked on an extensive service delivery monitoring programme across affected communities.
Focus on sewer and water challenges
The programme focused on critical issues, including sewer spillages, blocked manholes, water-related challenges and other concerns requiring urgent municipal intervention.
According to the municipality, some service delivery problems remain unknown because residents often discuss concerns within their households or communities without formally reporting them through the appropriate municipal channels.
The municipality said the monitoring programme provides an opportunity for councillors and officials to engage directly with residents, identify challenges on the ground and implement immediate interventions where necessary.
Municipality commits to monitoring and intervention
Municipal manager Morris Maluleke has undertaken to personally monitor the situation on a fortnightly basis while officials work towards a lasting solution. Progress reports will be submitted to the mayor, speaker and chief whip.
The municipality also committed to ensuring water and sanitation teams are equipped with the necessary cleaning materials and that a short-term intervention plan is implemented to address current challenges.
Long-term solutions under consideration
Medium- and long-term solutions will be presented to relevant government departments, including the premier’s office, CoGHSTA and Treasury, to address sewer spillages linked to historical infrastructure design challenges.
“The municipality acknowledges the negative impact this situation has had on affected residents and recognises how it may have stripped them of their dignity,” said Taueatsoala.
He added that the municipality would continue working closely with communities to minimise future sewer spillages and urged residents not to dispose of foreign objects into sewer lines, as this contributes significantly to blockages.
