The DWS and partners continue to bring relief to drought-stricken communities
The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) continues to partner with the private sector and other sectors of the South African community in efforts to relieve the impact of the current drought on affected communities country-wide.
In the latest collaboration effort, the DWS continues the grand partnership with Operation Hydrate and Awqaf SA. This collaboration will result in the drilling of 67 new boreholes. These boreholes symbolize the 67 Minutes of volunteerism expected from each and every South African in recognition of Mandela Month.
The investment towards this effort stands at an amount of R10 million. The benefits to the relevant communities who will access this precious resource in this time of drought are incalculable. The collective effort in this regard is to recognise the need to bring a basic service to people who deserve it.
The Minister of the DWS, Ms Nomvula Mokonyane, in appreciating this continued partnership, indicated that: “Civil society is continuing to partner with government and this makes us proud. We will work with the NGOs and the department will identify areas in need of water. We salute those NGOs and individuals who continue to care and assist.”
Mr Yusuf Abramjee, speaking on behalf of Operation Hydrate and Awqaf SA, indicated that the NGOs and their partners will continue in their work to keep up the spirit of Ubuntu. He articulated how this is made possible by way of donating generously and helping those in need, all in recognition of the need to “keep Madiba’s legacy alive.”
Awqaf SA’s Zainul Cajee referred to the partnership as being for the benefit of the people of South Africa, and that “We at Awqaf remain committed to social upliftment and our humanitarian efforts will continue.”
What the DWS, Operation Hydrate and Awqaf SA find heartening is the fact that from the initial collaboration, the Nelson Mandela Foundation supported and endorsed the effort. No one can feel much better than receiving such an endorsement.
The DWS is of the belief that with more of such efforts and collaborations, the challenges of the current drought can be quicker responded to and relief be felt by the affected communities.
For more information contact:
Sputnik Ratau:
Cell: 082 874 2942
