WATCH: Rubbish burning on streets of eSikhaleni as municipal strike hampers service delivery

Esikhaleni residents have resorted to burning waste in municipal skips as the ongoing workers’ strike, which has crippled service delivery across the City of uMhlathuze, enters its fifth day.

Workers affiliated to the South African Municipal Workers’ Union (Samwu) downed tools last week Tuesday, complaining about the municipality’s failure to address ongoing issues relating to non-payment of overtime and lack of PPE provision.

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Samwu represents a total of 1 483 City of uMhlathuze employees, which accounts for 67% of the municipality’s workforce.

Ward 14 Councillor Mondli Mthethwa said he understands the situation, but that this has negatively impacted service delivery for residents.

“We have a broken water pipe in the ward, which has not been fixed. It has been two weeks now without water. People are walking long distances to make ends meet and get water, and there are no tankers being provided as an alternative,” said Mthethwa.

Mthethwa reiterated that the uncollected waste bins are a concern, with residents opting to empty them into burning municipal skips.

In its recent communiqué, the City of uMhlathuze said the community responded positively following their appeal for assistance in addressing criminal acts aimed at disrupting service delivery.

“In eSikhaleni, a small group of individuals attempted to block the road by emptying waste bins and scattering refuse. Thanks to the vigilance and swift action of local residents, the attempt was foiled, and the individuals fled the scene,” said the city in a statement on Sunday evening.

The statement continued to read that the incident followed intelligence reports indicating plans to further tamper with and vandalise water and electricity infrastructure during the night, with the intention of inciting the broader community to join the ‘unlawful and unprotected’ strike led by certain Samwu members.

“The city remains fully prepared and committed to confronting these criminal acts. Security has been heightened, and any employees found participating in acts of sabotage, vandalism, or incitement will face serious disciplinary measures, including legal action.”

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