‘We must work together to create jobs that will help reduce crime and promote a safer environment for all’
DELMAS – Access to reliable water supply remains a pressing concern for residents of the Victor Khanye Local Municipality in Delmas. For years, the community has endured limited access to clean running water, with some areas more affected than others. During a mayoral Imbizo held on Saturday, June 7, at the Simon Gondwe Sports Centre, residents took the opportunity to voice their frustrations and demand lasting solutions.
One of the key issues raised was the need for improved access to water and concerns about its poor quality. Residents highlighted that the scheduled maintenance often worsens the drought-like conditions they already face.
“Water is a serious challenge in Victor Khanye. Almost every week, we experience water outages,” said one resident.
“We have held numerous meetings with councillors and municipal officials, but it seems our challenges are not taken seriously,” another added.
In response, Executive Mayor Vusi Buda acknowledged the concerns, explaining that while the municipal reservoir had previously been full, it is now depleted due to high household consumption.
Buda also pointed fingers at residents in informal settlements for exacerbating the situation.
“We understand the struggles our residents face, particularly in informal settlements around Delmas, where many use water without paying. This delays development efforts for the broader community,” he explained.
Residents challenged Buda to install temporary water meters in these areas to ensure fair usage and accountability. They argued that such a measure would encourage responsible consumption and ease the pressure on the water supply system.
Elderly residents also raised pressing concerns, highlighting the hardship caused by high utility bills. Many said they were confused and overwhelmed by the current billing system. In response, the municipality has implemented a billing reduction plan and continues to provide a free basic water allowance to lessen the financial strain on the most vulnerable.
Infrastructure development was another major talking point. Residents from Ematshothombeni pleaded for the construction of a bridge to provide a safe crossing for children travelling to school—an urgent need that highlights the municipality’s responsibility to ensure learners’ safety.
Additionally, elderly residents requested help with Smart ID applications, urging the municipality to establish local collection points to avoid long and costly trips to Springs.
Mayor Buda cited corruption as a challenge that had hindered the transfer of Home Affairs services to the area but assured residents that improvements were being pursued to allow local issuance of Smart IDs.
On the issue of crime, the mayor acknowledged a strong link between rising unemployment and increased criminal activity in the area. He stressed the importance of creating economic opportunities.
“We must work together to create jobs that will help reduce crime and promote a safer environment for all,” said Buda.
In a show of goodwill, the municipality donated blankets to those in need, a gesture that demonstrated their commitment to social support and community upliftment.
Despite the municipality’s tight budget and ongoing financial challenges, Buda outlined a funding plan to address the most urgent service delivery issues. He concluded his address by calling on residents to stay engaged and actively participate in local governance.
“Positive change begins with all of us. Let’s work together to build the community we want,” he said.
