Municipal Manager of Ga-Segonyana local municipality -Mr Martin Tsatsimpe
Ga- Segonyana
Despite significant recent rainfall, taps in the John Taolo Gaetsewe region remain dry, with residents continuing to face severe water shortages.The year-in, year-out crisis has sparked ongoing outcry from communities, with local municipalities bearing the brunt of the blame from frustrated residents.
The sewer system is also under severe strain, a challenge directly linked to the water scarcity. Speaking on the matter, Ga-Segonyana Local Municipality Municipal Manager, Martin Tsatsimpe, said a myriad of underlying factors have contributed to the crisis, requiring urgent intervention from both local and national government.
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Tsatsimpe explained that while population growth occurs naturally, infrastructure development requires proportionate planning and a strong resource base to match demand and supply. He noted that Kuruman town’s water supply system was designed decades ago and has not kept pace with rapid urban migration.
“The advent of freedom and independence created impromptu migration from rural villages to urban settlements. This overwhelmed the water supply system, because the supply dams and the obsolete system cannot cope with the demand,” said Tsatsimpe. He further stressed that the upgrading of both water and sewer systems is a necessity that must be driven jointly by central government and the local authority.
Tsatsimpe said since assuming office, he has been in direct correspondence with the relevant national department for the past three to four years, requesting resources to expand Kuruman’s water and sewer infrastructure. He remains optimistic that his call will be answered, adding that the frequent outcry from residents further strengthens the municipality’s case.
In the meantime, Tsatsimpe commended Black Rock Mining Operations for its continued support in preventing the situation from deteriorating further.“Mines alone cannot meet all the needs of this town, but partnership with government can provide a solution,” he said.
He reaffirmed that the municipality has done, and continues to do, everything within its powers to ensure that stability prevails while awaiting national government support.
Article Credit- The original article and picture is by Victor Mulangisi
