Access to water remains a challenge in the Eastern Cape

Drops of water running from a tap.

1 minute

Access to clean drinking water is still a major challenge in the Eastern Cape. In some areas, dams have been built but taps are still dry.

One of the projects that aims to eradicate water scarcity is the construction of the Umzimvubu dam in the OR Tambo District Municipality which has been delayed for decades.

Currently, construction has been halted due to a standoff after allegations that residents are complaining about not being part of the project.

A resident of Siqungqwini village in Tsolo, Siyabonga Sigenu, says no work will be done until their grievances are addressed.

“Our first problem started in 2021 when the project came to resume work, when they came they hired people from outside and no one from Siqungqweni was employed. We had to embark on a protest to get employment. The department took land from people without compensation. They were promised to be paid but they were only paid R500.00 as compensation.”