Majority of uMkhanyakude households without water

During an Integrated Development Plan (IDP) roadshow at Jozini on Tuesday, it was revealed that only 28 000 of the 150 000 households in uMkhanyakude District Municipality have access to piped water.

Addressing the attendees, uMkhanyakude District Mayor Siphile Mdaka explained that while water pipes have been installed to about 70% of the area, only 20% of the households have access.

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‘We have to state facts as they are. The struggle now is to supply water to households. It cannot be correct that we allow this situation to continue, especially now that we know the challenge we are faced with,’ Mdaka told community members.

The mayor said it was time to rectify this situation, which would require the collective effort of Amakhosi, councillors, the business sector, community leaders and individuals.

Mdaka also addressed the rampant unemployment in the district, whereby 59% of the employable population were without work – with 70% of the youth unemployed.

The majority of those with jobs were working in government departments.

He said the protected areas, which made up 30% of the district, included iSimangaliso Wetland Park and privately-owned game reserves, all of which have the potential to significantly contribute to economic growth.

‘We are cognizant of the adverse impact the pandemic has had on the economy, but now is the time for the economy to recover. In that recovery, people must be included, in particular black people,’ the mayor said.

He added that the municipality’s uMhlosinga Development Agency is tasked with drafting a clear plan for economic development in the agricultural and tourism sectors, and for implementing radical socio-economic transformation.

He said research has shown that the area’s Makhathini Flats has the potential to be a food basket for the South African Development Community (SADC), a matter which should be explored urgently.

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