Minister Nomvula Mokonyane delivered mobile water containers to relieve the strain of collecting and storing water to elderly and disabled residents of Khayelisha area of Thembisile Hani Local Municipality on 7 June 2016. She delivered 100 water carts to the municipality and also provided buckets to assist in storage to the community members.
The Minister reminded the community that “today is better than yesterday and tomorrow will be a better day than today” and encouraged the people to have hope as hope does not kill (ithemba alibulali). She also stated that 60% of South Africans are enjoying tap water and encouraged the community to be patient and wait for their turn.
The Minister also officially handed over an 80 000 litre water tank to the community of Khayelisha in the Sheldon, Kwamhlanga area of Thembisile Hani local Municipality. The water tank is providing water to the area to ensure that that the community has access to the most precious resource and the source of life. Another tank is currently servicing the community of Kwaggafontein. The Minister also stated that another tank will be delivered in Moloto to assist with water provision for the community in that area.
In ensuring water provision to the communities of the Thembisile Hani Local Municipality, the department is currently supplying the water tanks and drilling and refurbishing boreholes. This is done with the aim of augmenting the little water available to ensure that all have access to water in the municipality.
Minister Mokonyane also reminded the community about the effects of climate change on water availability and encouraged the community to conserve and use the available water sparingly. She also told the community that government initially declared five provinces, now eight, of which Mpumalanga is one, as disaster areas due to water shortages as a result of climate change.
Minister Mokonyane also pleaded with the community to take care of the water tank and service delivery infrastructure in their areas. “I urge you all to take ownership and care for the water tank and other infrastructure as the tank and infrastructure belongs to you, the community. As government we care for you”, she said.
The Minister also highlighted the importance of proper sanitation and called on the people to work with government in ensuring a better life for all. “A decent toilet brings human dignity. That’s what we want for you. Let’s work together in this journey. Water is life. Forward with service delivery”, she stated.
Enquiries:
Sputnik Ratau
Cell: 082 874 2492
Themba Khoza
Cell: 082 600 5666
