The R5 billion in question is allegedly in arrears from prior years as a result of multiple instances of payment failures to the water board. The information was made known to OFM News by the Member of Parliament, George Michalakis, who alleged the money owed has also resulted in deteriorating water infrastructure, as it is unreasonable to expect the water board to fulfil its contractual obligations under these circumstances.

Michalakis said, through his written parliamentary question, he has learned that Bloem Water has a budget shortfall of R377 million to address the water infrastructure maintenance backlog in the Matjhabeng Local Municipality. 

The Minister of Water and Sanitation, Senzo Mchunu, has indicated that Bloem Water has allocated R25,2 million for the maintenance of infrastructure, while it needs R402 million to address the maintenance backlog.

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According to the latest Auditor-General report, Matjhabeng loses 56% of its water yearly due to its deteriorating infrastructure. This amounts to R324 million worth of water lost.

He further explained that as a consequence of the debt to the water board and the failing infrastructure, the people of Matjhabeng are then left with no water supply for weeks on end. And because of this, the municipality, therefore, cannot do maintenance, and the infrastructure further deteriorates, thus increasing the water problems in the municipality.

Michalakis, who is also a DA Constituency Head for the municipality, said: “If you live in Matjhabeng and you don't have water due to no maintenance: blame the ANC. The problem with water should be laid at the feet of the ANC. In the meantime, it is the residents who are suffering and this is unacceptable.”

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Michalakis stated that 60% of water meant for household usage is lost every day due to failing infrastructure.

The newly elected Provincial Premier, Mxolisi Dukwana, made mentioned during the State of the Province Address (Sopa) that work has already commenced at the wastewater treatment plant in the Matjhabeng Municipality.

Recent water shortages in Riebeeckstad lasted seven weeks, and the city's water issues are still not entirely resolved.

“It is intolerable that locals should endure this level of suffering as a result of political incompetence. Also, assistance should be given to water boards so they may hold municipalities that are their defaulting clients responsible,” concluded Michalakis.

OFM News is awaiting a comment from Bloem Water and the Matjhabeng Municipality.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame