Over 400 Fall Ill In Bronkhorstspruit Water Crisis As Ramaphosa Apologises

President Cyril Ramaphosa has apologised to residents affected by the water contamination crisis in Bronkhorstspruit after at least 408 cases of gastrointestinal illness were recorded.

Speaking during a campaign visit to Daveyton in Ekurhuleni, Ramaphosa said national government had been forced to intervene after failures in the City of Tshwane’s water treatment processes. He said the priority was to ensure affected communities regained access to safe drinking water.

Ramaphosa Apologises Over Bronkhorstspruit Water Crisis

The Bronkhorstspruit water crisis affected communities between 7 and 18 October, including Bronkhorstspruit, Zithobeni, Ekandustria and surrounding areas.

The outbreak followed a period between 24 September and 14 October when the Bronkhorstspruit Water Treatment Plant operated without chlorine because of a supply shortage. Concerns about water safety were compounded by raw sewage pollution in the Bronkhorstspruit River.

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“We are very sorry that it has resulted in the challenge of gastrointestinal illness that has affected a number of people,” Ramaphosa said.

Tshwane Water Treatment Failures Under Scrutiny

The Tshwane water contamination crisis has raised questions about the municipality’s response and the operation of the treatment plant. Tshwane Mayor Dr Nasiphi Moya acknowledged shortcomings and said Rand Water had advised the municipality to isolate and shut down the plant’s water supply. The municipality has since engaged Rand Water to assist with rehabilitation and upgrades.

“Our immediate priority is to restore access to clean, safe drinking water for affected communities,” Moya said, adding that the improvements were intended to secure a reliable and sustainable water supply.

National Government Intervenes In Bronkhorstspruit Water Crisis

The Bronkhorstspruit water crisis has prompted the establishment of a National Water Crisis Committee to coordinate the government’s response. Ramaphosa said the committee would help ensure residents regained access to safe drinking water while the underlying problems were addressed.

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The government has said it is working towards a solution, although restoring safe water access remains an immediate challenge.

“We now have to intervene and make sure that people have safe drinking water… That is why we set up the National Water Crisis Committee,” Ramaphosa said.