Frustrated residents in Rustenburg’s Boitekong area say they have been grappling with persistent sewage spills and water infrastructure failures, despite the government’s planned handover of a refurbished sewer pump station today.
Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina is expected to officially launch the upgraded Boitekong Sewer Pump Station, which authorities say will alleviate chronic blockages in the community. However, locals report that raw sewage continues to spill into yards and streets, creating unbearable living conditions.
“We Live With the Smell Every Day”
A journalist on the ground highlighted the severity of the crisis, showing graphic footage of sewage flooding residential areas. Residents described the stench as inescapable, with some saying the contaminated water has even seeped into their homes.
One elderly resident, Pendalopei, shared her struggles, explaining that she cannot collect enough water from delivery tankers due to her frail condition. As a result, she is often forced to rely on rainwater or unsafe open sources. Another resident, Ukok, lamented that sewage water has damaged her wooden house, yet no repairs have been made.
Minister’s Intervention Under Scrutiny
While the new pump station is expected to improve sanitation services, residents remain skeptical, citing long-standing neglect. The community hopes Minister Majodina will address broader infrastructure challenges during her visit, including water supply shortages and home damages caused by sewage backups.
The minister is scheduled to speak at 11:00, where she is expected to outline further interventions. For now, Boitekong’s residents continue to endure the health hazards and discomfort of living with overflowing sewage—a crisis they say has been ignored for too long.