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An oversight inspection by the Democratic Alliance (DA) of the Lake Mzingazi region has revealed the utter degradation of the lake, associated rivers and wetlands - with hippos and crocodiles covered in human faeces and toilet paper.

The situation is the result of escalating sewage spills from the city of Richard’s Bay, which has sadly become the norm.

The DA’s visit has shockingly also revealed that an ancient mangrove forest, containing highly protected tree species, has become a lake of festering sewage as pump stations continue to fail. (view here)

Meanwhile, the last remaining wildlife in the surrounding rivers and lake continue to suffer as the Umhlathuze municipality seems unable or unwilling to simply upgrade and refurbish its sewage pumping infrastructure.  (view here)

The horrific situation is a clear example of financial mismanagement on the part of the city. This is directly leading to massive environmental pollution and a threat to potable water supply. 

The city has been slapped with at least 17 compliance directives by KwaZulu-Natal’s (KZN) environmental affairs department. The DA will continue to insist on criminal prosecution in this ongoing saga. 

Basic municipal service delivery is not an optional mandate for municipalities.  If the current ANC-run leadership cannot get it right, they should step aside and let the DA get things done.

Issued by DA KZN Spokesperson on EDTEA Heinz de Boer