Persistent pressure from the DA has prompted progress in resolving the sewage crisis in Nxuba, with the Chris Hani District Municipality (CHDM) making key commitments to the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC).
In June, I filed a formal complaint with the SAHRC, highlighting the critical issue of untreated sewage contaminating the Great Fish River in Nxuba, which poses an environmental danger and a grave human rights violation.
The Great Fish River is a vital water resource and the contamination of it with raw sewage poses a great threat to the health of residents and the surrounding ecosystem.
Soon after the complaint was filed, the SAHRC confirmed an investigation and engaged the CHDM, the water and sanitation authority for the Inxuba Yethemba Local Municipality (IYLM), which includes the town of Nxuba.
After its interaction with the SAHRC the Chris Hani District Municipality officially stated that it is “committed to maintaining a clean and healthy environment as the Water Services Authority responsible for water and sanitation services”. (download response here)
The CHDM also committed to the following action plan to stop untreated sewage discharge into the Great Fish River:
- Short- to Medium-term (Ongoing): Jetting and dredging blocked sewer lines, repairing damaged pipes, and restoring non-functional treatment units.
- Long-term (Planned): Comprehensive upgrades to Cradock’s bulk sewer and sanitation systems, currently in planning with a Professional Service Provider and scheduled for implementation in the 2028/2029 financial year.
The DA will closely monitor the implementation of all commitments made by the Chris Hani District Municipality to the SAHRC and compile a detailed report on all claims and undertakings. This report will be submitted to the SAHRC in due course.
Given CHDM’s repeated failure to address the sewage crisis in Inxuba Yethemba, their commitments cannot be accepted at face value.
The people of Inxuba Yethemba and especially Nxuba, deserve better. The DA will continue to fight tirelessly to protect their fundamental human rights to health and dignity.