By Emily Setona
QWAQWA – Residents of Elite, Ward 28, say they are living in unbearable conditions as raw sewage continues to spill through their neighbourhood — a crisis they claim has been ignored for years by the Maluti-a-Phofung Local Municipality.
Thandaza Msimang said the problem dates back to 2023, with repeated reports yielding little action.
“It has been like this since 2023. We report it, nothing happens. They came once and never returned,” she said.
The persistent overflow has severely disrupted daily life, particularly in a cul-de-sac known as “Sekeleng”, where residents say the situation has become intolerable.
Notshi Mosiea (62), a retired educator, said the crisis stretches back nearly a decade.
“For almost ten years, sewage has been flooding my yard and stinking up the neighbourhood. There is no regard for our living conditions,” he said.
Mosiea said repeated complaints to both MAPWater and the municipality have gone unanswered.
“Officials came recently to inspect, but nothing has been done since,” he said.
Residents warn the ongoing spillage poses serious health risks, especially to children.
“We are worried about our health. This is heartbreaking — we have been reporting this for years with no solution,” Mosiea added.
Frustration is mounting in Sekeleng as sewage continues to contaminate the environment, with no consistent intervention in sight.
MAPWater communications manager Tebogo Radebe confirmed the issue.
“A report was received regarding a sewer blockage in Elite. An inspection confirmed the blockage,” she said.
“The matter will be escalated to a senior artisan for further assessment.”
Residents say they have heard such assurances before — and now demand urgent, lasting action.
