By Jacobs Botha
As maintenance of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP) progresses, the South African government has issued a stern warning to municipalities about the threat posed by so-called “water tanker mafias.” These groups allegedly sabotage water systems to create business opportunities, exploiting crises for profit.
During an inspection of the LHWP maintenance operations, Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation, Sello Seitlholo, cautioned mayors to be vigilant. “In any crisis, particularly relating to water, opportunists will emerge. I want to warn mayors very strongly to guard against that. In situations like this, the water tanker mafia is going to come in steamrolling because, to them, this is payday,” Seitlholo emphasized.
Since October 1, 2024, the Trans Caledon Tunnel Authority (TCTA) and the Lesotho Highlands Development Agency (LHDA) have undertaken joint maintenance operations. TCTA is focusing on Delivery Tunnel North within South Africa, while LHDA addresses transfer tunnels at the Muela hydro power station in Lesotho. This collaboration aims to ensure the long-term efficiency and reliability of the water supply.
Deputy Minister David Mahlobo, who accompanied Seitlholo on the inspection, reminded water service providers that the use of water tankers is a temporary solution. “It is not a permanent thing. Let them give water to our citizens but do not let them exploit our people. If they break the law and try to interfere with municipal systems by vandalizing the valves, the long arm of the law will reach them,” Mahlobo warned.
The provincial government, represented by Acting Free State Premier Jabu Mbalula, expressed satisfaction with the project’s progress, stating that it would significantly benefit the province’s residents. “Water leaks are one of the most critical issues facing the province, and we are attending to this challenge together with the national government,” Mbalula assured citizens.
To counteract the water tanker mafias, Seitlholo urged municipalities to engage in continuous communication with their communities. “We must constantly communicate with our communities, using social media so that people are aware of what is happening, particularly around the consumption of water,” Seitlholo advised.
The government’s proactive stance aims to prevent exploitation and ensure that the LHWP maintenance provides long-term solutions for South Africa’s water needs, safeguarding both the infrastructure and the well-being of its citizens.
