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The Portfolio Committee on Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) continued its Public Participation Oversight Week today, with water infrastructure and supply at the centre of discussions. The committee engaged Buffalo City Municipality (BCM), the Amathole Water Board, and the Department of Water and Sanitation on the state of water services in the region.
What Happened
On day two of Oversight Week, the committee examined the severe water challenges facing Buffalo City. Members visited the Amalinda Water Treatment Plant, which is currently nonfunctional due to leaks, vandalism, and inadequate maintenance.
The presentations outlined key concerns, including water shortages, wastewater infrastructure failures, cable theft, and the need for stricter asset protection.
Official Response
Honourable Konza welcomed the committee’s decision to elevate water services as a priority issue.
“Water is life, but the slogan loses meaning if communities remain without access. A Water Infrastructure Summit could help assess, plan, monitor, and evaluate the current system to identify gaps and attract investment,” she said.
Honourable Matiwane urged the municipality to seek support from wastewater specialists to repair broken infrastructure and called for collaborations to address vandalism. “Preventative measures must involve SAPS intelligence, private armed security, and partnerships with Amathole Water and the Department of Water and Sanitation,” he noted.
Community Impact
Residents of Buffalo City continue to face uncertainty over water access. The Portfolio Committee stressed that despite challenges, BCM must remain focused on finding practical solutions rather than dwelling on difficulties.
By prioritizing accountability and partnerships, the committee hopes to strengthen water service delivery and restore public confidence.
FAQ
Q: Which plant was inspected during Oversight Week?
A: The Amalinda Water Treatment Plant.
Q: What are the main issues affecting water supply in Buffalo City?
A: Leaks, vandalism, wastewater infrastructure failures, and cable theft.
Q: What solutions are being proposed?
A: A Water Infrastructure Summit, specialist repairs, and stronger security partnerships.
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