Violent protests over water in Tsakane

Residents of Tsakane took to the streets on Monday and Tuesday (September 18-19), demanding the restoration of water in the area.

The City of Ekurhuleni confirmed that it is actively addressing ongoing water supply challenges, particularly in the Tsakane/Geluksdal and Etwatwa/Daveyton areas, where low storage levels are affecting supply and pressure.

However, the community decided to take the law into their hands and set off an illegal protest that resulted in multiple injuries for both police and the rioters.

Following months of challenges with Rand Water’s Mapleton system, residents of Tsakane protested near the Xhosa water reservoir and the municipality offices in the township.

City spokesperson Zweli Dlamini said in order to protect the system from cavitation, pumps are temporarily offline until water levels stabilise. 

Dlamini said the KwaThema reservoir is currently empty and its outlets will remain closed overnight to replenish storage levels. 

“We are working in close coordination with Rand Water, following their efforts to enhance the RW Mapleton system. We are awaiting further updates from Rand Water to ensure an equitable water supply for all residents.