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The staggering loss of R1.781 billion in drinking water over the last decade represents an alarming failure on the part of the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality (MMM). According to a decade's worth of Auditor General (AG) Reports, the MMM has consistently haemorrhaged an average of R178,171,733.90 annually or R488,141.73 each day.

While the national acceptable average for water losses stands at 19%, Mangaung's losses have soared to an average of 39%. This excessive loss has not only strained the municipality's finances but has also underscored the urgent need for proper infrastructure maintenance, a bolstered workforce, reliable tendering processes, functional water meters, and increased investment in essential upgrades. Taxpayers' funds must be utilised judiciously, avoiding wasteful expenditure.

The mismanagement of municipal infrastructure has not only resulted in a severe breach of the water rights, as protected by the South African Constitution but has also jeopardized the financial stability of the municipality. The detrimental impact of Mangaung's water mismanagement extends beyond financial strain, directly affecting the community's right to water. As losses escalate, citizens face potential water shortages, escalating costs, and an overall decline in the quality of life. Our commitment to resolving this crisis is a commitment to restoring not only fiscal responsibility but also ensuring a reliable and equitable water supply for all residents.

Anticipation mounts as the AG prepares to release the next report, and we brace ourselves for another disheartening performance review of Mangaung. We commit to a thorough analysis of the forthcoming report, intending to further expose the substantial burden placed on the municipality. Simultaneously, we will raise questions in the council to understand why this crisis has persisted despite numerous warnings about the precarious state of water provision.

We will actively engage with stakeholders to develop a plan that addresses infrastructure shortcomings, streamlines tender processes, and ensures proper maintenance, with the ultimate goal of reducing water losses and safeguarding public funds.

Issued by Rossouw Botes - DA Councillor Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality