Maniac, Leo Burg’s debut album should not be missed.
Talent and a strong voice are what make for good music at times and Leo Burg has all of that. A vibrant young man that writes his own music. Music with a different style from the mainstream but very entertaining and easy to listen to.
Leo describes his music as Indi-pop. It is worth listening to.
Leo Burg grew up in Secunda and recently returned, after residing in Johannesburg for seven years. With aspirations of taking his music to the global stage, Leo plans to expand his audience beyond South Africa in the coming months.
The Bulletin had the opportunity to talk to Leo about his album and his music. The interview took place on the 14th but due to power supply problems as well as the load-shedding it could not be placed on Friday. Please look at the interview below.
The interview with Leo on Friday 14 April
Get ready to be swept away by the soulful sound of Leo Burg, the South African musician, singer-songwriter, He released his debut album, “MANIAC,” on April 14, 2023. With ten tracks that blend emotional and uplifting melodies, this album will resonate with anyone who has ever experienced love, loss, and self-discovery.
Leo is a rising star in the South African music scene, and “MANIAC” showcases his incredible talent and versatility as a recording artist. The album reflects his artistry, passion, and emotional depth and is a must-listen for anyone who loves great music and appreciates a unique sound that captures the essence of life. The album features collaborations with Carla Franco, Just Mia, and Row-Lean and production from industry heavyweights like Pala Chrome, Pierre Stemmet, and Sloani. The result is a unique album that highlights Leo’s artistry and musical prowess.
The album’s first track, “Authenticity” (ft JUR4DO), sets the tone for the rest of the album with its mantra-like lyrics, encouraging listeners to prioritize their peace of mind and authenticity over approval.
The title track, “MANIAC,” co-written with Armand Joubert and produced by Pala Chrome, is a dance track that inspires listeners to be themselves and not care about what others think.
Other standout tracks include “waste your time,” a powerful upbeat ballad that reflects on the end of a long-term relationship and the decision to move on from wasting each other’s time.
“Bygones” (with Carla Franco) is a beachy collaboration that encourages listeners to let go and move on from the past.
“Bygones” by Leo Burg
“Love, just be,” a pop ballad dedicated to Leo’s late father, is a touching tribute that encourages listeners to find peace in the face of loss.
Leo puts his own spin on Alt-J’s hit, “Breezeblocks” ft. Just Mia — adding a new dimension to the song with Just Mia’s vocals.
“Somehow” is an experimental EDM track with pop and house elements that creates an eerie and atmospheric sound, with lyrics about self-discovery and empowerment.
Finally, “aura (ft JUR4DO)” serves as a mantra to close the album, with lyrics encouraging the listener to “protect your aura.”
As a bonus, “MANIAC” includes “you’re somebody else,” a bonus track covered by Row-Lean and Leo in 2019, which had much commercial success.
Sasol in partnership with Summit is offering a Handyman Training Programme
Sasol in partnership with Summit is offering a Handyman Training Programme to learners with an interest in and passion for construction. This will enable learners to gain valuable experience in handyman skills.
Learners who successfully complete this customised programme will be equipped with sought-after construction skills and the ability to launch a career in construction or start their own business. Learners will be exposed to theoretical and practical workplace experience
Failure to provide Sasol with truthful information and valid documents will render your application null and void.
Fraud alert: Sasol will never request you to make any cash deposit/payments as part of the recruitment process. If you do not receive any feedback within 60 days after the closing date of the advert, please consider your application unsuccessful
In line with our commitment to employment equity, we welcome applications from female candidates
A 23-year-old mother of three has been arrested for the attempted murder of her newborn baby at her male friend’s house, at Matangaleni Trust near Mkhuhlu on 11 April 2023.
It is alleged that the pregnant woman from Bushbuckridge visited her male companion for the first time.
According to the information, the male friend who was eager to meet her made all the necessary arrangements and they both met. On that fateful night, a few minutes before midnight, the woman responded to the call of nature and that was when the baby boy was born. Thereafter, she allegedly tried to conceal the baby’s birth by throwing him in the pit toilet.
Upon realising the ordeal by the male companion, police and medical practitioners were summoned to the scene and the newborn baby was safely rescued and he was brought out of the pit toilet alive.
The woman was arrested and both, the baby boy as well as his mother were taken to the hospital for further medical attention. The woman was charged with attempted murder and she is currently under police guard.
The female suspect is expected to appear at the Mkhuhlu Magistrate’s Court soon.
Meanwhile, the Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela has strongly condemned the incident and encouraged members of the public to make use of psychosocial services from professionals whenever they undergo stressful life experiences whereby similar incidents could be prevented.
Police urge anyone with any information on Crime to call the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111. Alternatively, members of the public can send information via MYSAPSAPP. All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.
Al-Imdaad Foundation plans to help 60,000 people in 40 countries with Ramadan donations
The Al-Imdaad Foundation, a non-profit organisation dedicated to providing aid and assistance to local and global communities in need, hopes to increase the number of donations it receives over Ramadan this year. The Foundation raises most of the money it needs to fund its charitable work over Ramadan, and this year, it would like to reach more people in need.
Ramadan is known as the month of compassion and generosity. As people fast during Ramadan they experience a little hunger, thirst, and weakness themselves, softening their hearts to the plight of those who experience this every day. All Muslims are encouraged to be generous and giving based on the central Islamic principle of Zakat, and this is especially true during Ramadan.
As one of the Five Pillars of Islam, Zakat is an obligatory charitable contribution that all Muslims who meet certain wealth criteria must make. It is paid on 2.5% of your Zakat-eligible wealth, and it is a deeply spiritual form of giving that helps provide aid to those in need.
Zakat donations made over Ramadan help sustain the Al-Imdaad Foundation throughout the year. As Ramadan approaches, the Foundation is gearing up for its annual Ramadan food hamper and feeding programmes. These hamper programmes provide a month’s supply of essential foods to families in need across 40 countries so that they can fast without difficulties. In 2023, the Al-Imdaad Foundation aims to assist up to 60,000 fasting people through the programme. The Foundation will also provide new clothes to orphans and struggling children in Syria, Gaza, Jordan, Kenya, DR Congo, and South Africa through its Eid clothes programmes.
Last year, some of the projects funded by Ramadan donations (which include Zakat donations and other donations) included:
an Afghanistan crisis appeal to provide food and emergency assistance to struggling Afghan families;
a Gaza Hospital which provides greatly needed medical services in the Gaza Strip;
support for Syria projects;
many local South African projects, such as Slice-4-Life, Winter Warmth, and Make breakfast Possible.
The Al-Imdaad Foundation also runs countless other assistance programmes throughout the year. Some of the NGO’s most recent projects include Pakistan Flood Relief Housing, the Pakistan Medical Centre, and the Rohingya Medical Health Post. The Foundation continues to expand its Jordan Refugee Village, as well as a variety of sustainable agriculture and garden projects in South Africa. The organisation will also continue to support Turkey and Syria by aiding with earthquake relief.
With so many important projects on the go, the Al-Imdaad Foundation always needs donations, and Ramadan is the perfect time to give.
“Ramadan is the month of generosity, and it is when the Prophet Muhammad,[AO1] peace be upon him, would be at his most generous. This makes it the ideal time for us to strive to give out of love.”
For more information on the Al-Imdaad Foundation and how you can get involved, visit alimdaad.com.
WOMEN IN MINING BENEFICIARY BELIEVE THAT “YOU NEED TO WORK SMART TO GAIN MUCH”
Inqubeko yomama (pty)Ltd, loosely translated as the achievement of women, was founded in 2019 by eMalahleni businesswomen Prima Mokgokoloshi. This enterprise employs six employees and renders industrial and domestic cleaning services to the mining sector and other clients.
Prima Mokgokoloshi
Prima is one of twenty beneficiaries of Seriti’s Women in Mining programme, a holistic development programme aiming at empowering woman entrepreneurs in the eMalahleni/Middelburg area, which was launched in May 2022 by Seriti. This programme is being run by Collective Value Creation (CVC) until the end of 2023 and emphasises Seriti’s focus on women’s empowerment.
Like most entrepreneurs, Prima dreamed of owning her own business and noticed an opportunity in her neighbourhood to render a cleaning service. She was however faced with serious challenges such as adequate cleaning equipment and obtaining sustainable cleaning projects. To an extent, she still struggles to overcome these challenges and hence, this mother of six regards the Women in Mining programme as heaven sent where she hopes to gain more expertise, improve her business skills and grow as a businesswoman and individual. In particular, she would like to acquire more knowledge of the bidding and pricing process.
Prima, who likes to read wide on social media and enjoys jogging, says the programme has taught her so far that a business’ image, advertising and networking play an important part on how you present your business offering to clients. “As a woman, I was only relying on my own knowledge and experience in the field where I was mostly disadvantaged due to lack of knowledge on business management. This programme enables me to gain more exposure in the field and network with other experienced female entrepreneurs.”
CVC’s Project Manager on the programme, Orla Ollewagen, said that “As women have unique needs and face diverse challenges, particularly as an entrepreneur, a common thread arose from workshopping these needs prior to designing the programme. Some core shared concerns include feelings of loneliness as a female leader; the daily struggle of juggling numerous roles, and not being taken seriously as a woman in business. I have a passion for women’s development and am excited to see these ladies develop individually and collectively as they support one another to grow their own businesses as well as those of others.”
Prima has praise for her family’s support and especially her husband who stands in for her when she has to attend courses and meetings. He is also the company’s project manager. Asking her what advice she would give to other prospective female entrepreneurs, she replies, “You first need to love what you do and commit to your business. Ensure that you become proactive, and daily search for opportunities. It is not an easy journey but first gain knowledge and do thorough research on the type of business.”
Apart from growing her business, she would like to explore the field of property investment.
In closure, Prima has the following message to the sponsor of the programme. “It is an honour to be selected and be part of this programme. The sponsors have truly invested in the socio-economic growth of women. I have never thought that I would be considered for an opportunity of this magnitude and be groomed by a team of such great calibre. They are professional, kind, and understand our different backgrounds and ethics. I thank the sponsors for their investment, and I will ensure that their commitment will not be in vain.”
EDUCATION IS KEY TO HELPING ANIMALS AND THEIR OWNERS AND FOR CHANGING ANIMAL WELFARE IN THE WORLD!
Sadly, most people don’t spend nearly enough time educating themselves on how to improve their pets’ lives or how to help other animals or animal welfare organizations. Below you can find a summary of many of the animal topics in this ANIMALS 101 series from almost 24 months. This article is part five of the summary series and focuses on how you can help make a difference. Here is part one, part two, part three and part four.
Let’s touch on a few of them!
WILD ANIMALS BELONG IN THE WILD AND NOT IN YOUR HOME AS PETS
SHEBA (tiger), like many other animals, paid the price with her life as well as those she killed because humans demand to keep exotic and wild animals in captivity or as pets, whether to exploit them for money or boost their egos, because they are ignorant, selfish, or stupid. Read part one & part two on the keeping of wild/exotic pets and why we don’t support it nor should you!
ANIMAL WELFARE ORGANIZATIONS NEED TO BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE
Animal welfare is like the Mafia, if you are in, you never get out! If you can’t get into the trenches (hats off to them), many people donate money to the cause or help in other ways, which is necessary too. Remember, it can look great on social media, but what questions should you be asking as a supporter? What goes on behind the scenes? Just because the organization is registered does not mean their intentions are pure. Due to mismanagement, negligence and fraud by some organizations, the rest have to work extra hard to prove they can be trusted.
It is important to choose to support reputable organizations and help hold them accountable. The Paw Company is a registered NPC and part of what we do is to train animal welfare organizations (free) on the business side of things and to hold those who work with animals accountable including veterinarians and other businesses that work with animals. Sadly, most of the public does not even know or understand half of what is going on in animal welfare and this article serves to help you make more informed decisions and for organizations to re-evaluate their effectiveness. Read more on how to keep veterinarians accoutable too.
Pitbulls – Image by The Paw Company
PITBULLS – THE BAN THE BREED & THE BEHAVIOUR
After reports of a Pitbull attack killing a child of the owner and another killed by the neighbour’s dog, a massive uproar began and the call for a Pitbull ban went viral. Chaos is unfolding around us while many people are still unaware of the massive crisis surrounding these Pitbull breeds (and others) and sadly thousands of innocent animals, have and continue to pay with their lives.
The fact is that any breed can be taught to be aggressive and any dog can bite, but the difference is that a Pitbull can do more damage than a Chihuahua. Pitbulls sadly have gotten a bad reputation over the years. Pitbulls and other power breeds became “trendy” and gave owners a sort of “street credit”.
A ban on Pitbulls is not the solution but rather legislation and accountability for pet owners! Read more about the Pitbull crisis in SA.
THE MUZZLE STIGMA
Big dogs, small dogs, and all breeds and sizes may need muzzles sometimes. It is not only a breed-specific tool. Here are just a few of the many reasons all dogs should learn to be comfortable in a muzzle.
With their shorter lifespans, pet loss is inevitable and saying goodbye is something every pet lover faces eventually. Saying goodbye is the hardest part of our relationships with our pets. Regardless of the type of pet, furry, finned, or scaled, no matter the species, we love them with all of our hearts and feel their loss as strongly as we’d feel the loss of a human family member or friend.
It doesn’t matter whether your pet died because of age, injury, or illness, the death of a beloved pet is excruciating and grief is the response to that loss. It is a strong and sometimes overwhelming emotion. Grief is the price we pay for love. They go together……that is the pact.
Read more about pet loss and the grief that accompanies it here or reach out to The Paw Company for more resources. We know this grief all too well! Remember that grief is personal and grief from the loss of a pet is as valid as losing a friend or family member.
DECEMBER HOLIDAYS ARE TOUGH FOR ANIMAL WELFARE
The December holiday is always a tough time for animal welfare organizations and their staff. There is always an extra influx of surrendered and lost animals, injured and scared ones after fireworks events, convenience euthanasia, extra expenses with fewer donations and then the additional problem of animals as gifts, etc. Animal welfare never gets a holiday as it is a 24/7 kind of job that is physically and emotionally exhausting. Read more on what we refer to as silly season here.
THERE ARE MANY WAYS TO HELP ANIMAL WELFARE WITHOUT HAVING TO DONATE.
Animal welfare always needs your help for those without a voice! Your help does not have to be financial. There are ways to prevent animal welfare organizations from being overwhelmed or to stop animal cruelty by not taking part in cruel practices (even unknowingly). Read more on how you can help.
Animal cruelty comes in many forms and you might, unknowingly, be contributing to it by supporting certain practices, industries, and buying certain beauty products or certain clothing items. With so many animal-friendly options available, and more on the market every day, it’s never been easier to have a cruelty-free wardrobe. FOUR PAWSshares how you can show more compassion in fashion in 5 simple steps.
IN 5 SIMPLE STEPS YOU CAN MAKE A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE!
Look for more sustainable plant-based fibres like organic or recycled cotton and hemp – these fabrics are gentle on the planet and can be found in so many fashion items.
Go for products made from waste! Discarded fishing nets, plastic bottles, recycled polyester, and even used coffee grinds are being made into versatile, durable, and luxurious fabrics turning one of the world’s greatest problems – consumer waste – into one of its best solutions!
Love pre-loved! Wearing it Kind doesn’t have to break the bank. Try the 80:20 rule – 80% pre-loved and 20% new and kind.
Be a protector of oceans, rivers, and lakes every time you wash! Use a washing bag in your machine to capture nasty microfibres and put a stop to harmful microplastic pollution.
Speak up! Already have a favourite brand you wish was doing more? Let them know! Your voice may be just the motivation they need to make their products better for animals, people, and the planet.
Your pets are your responsibility. If you can no longer care for them, please surrender them to the SPCA or a reputable animal welfare organization. If you can’t afford to properly care for them or have the time to meet their needs, then don’t get them. Make the time to learn more about your pets and their needs.
April is Prevention of Cruelty to Animals awareness month, so next week we will look at how you can recognize and help prevent cruelty.
SEVENTEENTH ACCUSED ARRESTED FOR MONEY LAUNDERING OF OVER R60 MILLION
MPUMALANGA – Additional Money Laundering accused, Demieties Peter Botes (47) was arrested and appeared before the Nelspruit Magistrates Court on Tuesday, 04 April 2023 alongside other accused who were previously released on R15 000 bail each.
The other accused are Thembi Millicent Motlohi (43), Allman Thabani Masuku (35), Xoliswa Celia Ngcelwane (52), Nompulelo Winnie Nxumalo (44), Agnes Nosipho Ndzinisa (54), Nkosinathi Samuel Gumede (37), Thabang Cliford Khumalo (41), Nonhlanhla Precious Matsheka (42) and Nkosinathi Mahlalela (36).
Peter Botes (47)
They were arrested by the Nelspruit-based Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation during a joint operation with Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), National Anti-Corruption Unit (NTACU) and Special Investigation Unit (SIU) on 18 July 2022 for fraud, theft and money laundering.
It is alleged that Botes who is the owner of a fleet of 45 trucks, licensed the vehicles without paying the license fees. The process is known as money dumping. The amount involved is approximately R60 million. The case against all accused was postponed to 20 July 2023 and more arrests are expected.
Police urge anyone with any information on Crime to call the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111. Alternatively, members of the public can send information via MYSAPSAPP. All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.
EDUCATION IS KEY TO HELPING ANIMALS AND THEIR OWNERS AND FOR CHANGING ANIMAL WELFARE IN THE WORLD!
Sadly, most people don’t spend nearly enough time educating themselves on how to improve their pets’ lives or how to help other animals or animal welfare organizations. Below you can find a summary of many of the animal topics in this ANIMALS 101 series from almost 24 months. This article is part four of the summary series. Here is part one, part two and part three.
Since many are still enjoying the holidays, here is a reminder on how to prioritize SAFETYfor your pets during the holidays.Many people are already on holiday and others are getting ready. Whether you are staying home or going away, remember that the busy holidays and travelling can be stressful and cause anxiety for your pets and their safety is your responsibility.
MICROCHIP YOU PETS – Before you do anything, I suggest you make sure your pets are microchipped, the microchip is registered on multiple databases and is in working order.
ESCAPE PROOF YOUR YARD – If you are away and you are leaving your pets behind with a responsible pet sitter, you still need to make sure your yard is extra secure. There are constantly pets in the streets and this holds many dangers in a cruel world. We understand that accidents happen and some animals are really escape artists, but one of a few reasons why animals get out is because IT IS EASY! You get climbers, runners, jumpers, diggers, chewers, some learn to open gates or some pets use a combination of the above. How to escape-proof your yard.
TRAVEL WITH PETS – Travelling with your animal family members can create wonderful memories, but it’s not always easy. Make sure you’re well-prepared before you hit the road. There are many things to consider before you take your pet on a road trip, including the temperament, size & safety of your pet. Here are some tips for travelling with pets.
Image by The Paw Company
EASTER is around the corner and with Easter comes family gatherings, chocolate, Easter egg hunts and gifts. Please don’t use this occasion to give your children chicks and rabbits just because they asked for them and think that they look “cute.” Pet ownership is a huge commitment and responsibility and it’s not something that should be done on impulse. In addition, Easter, like every holiday, involves potential hazards for your pets, that every pet parent should be aware of, so make sure your pets avoid Easter goodies and decorations to avoid unexpected heartaches. Read more on this topic here.
YOUR PETS CAN BE HEALTHIER AND HAPPIER IN 2023! HERE ARE OUR PAWSOME PET NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS……IF YOU MISSED IT!
A new year brings new goals, renewed hope and 365 days of opportunity for you and your pet to bond, develop healthier habits and discover new ways to live a full life. An important first step is to avoid becoming overwhelmed thinking you need to make big changes overnight. The important thing is to make a plan and move steadily forward.
Included in your pet new years resolutions should be regular HEALTH CHECKS.Our pets might get sick or injured and need veterinary care, but we can also add many tools to our toolbox, like health checks at home, to help prevent conditions from occurring in the first place or manage them better to allow our pets to live long and happy lives. Being informed and understanding what illnesses and conditions our pets might face is key to longevity. It is important to do regular health checks on your pets by inspecting their body from head to toe every week and making notes.
Between vet visits, you can keep a close eye on your pet’s health by conducting an at-home physical exam (demo video). Physical “inspection” touch with some positive re-enforcement on a regular basis can also help make vet visits more comfortable.
HEALTH CHECK-LIST
Behaviour
Body condition
Skin & coat
Eyes & ears
Nails & paws
Nose & mouth
Stool check
Vitals (heart rate, breathing, body temperature etc.)
Weigh your pet and review their diet
ARE YOU HELPING YOUR PET COPE DURING STORMY WEATHER?
There is always an increase in lost and injured pets after stormy weather or fireworks. In many cases, it is the same animals that are out in the streets and it is PREVENTABLE! Creating an environment that is free from fear and distress is essential for their well-being. Not only is it important to provide them with the necessary physical comforts and to ensure that their mental health is taken into consideration, it is your moral duty.
Noise phobia is a reality and many cats, dogs and other animals can suffer from it. The good news is that you can do something about it if you care enough for those animals. I understand that we can’t control the weather, but you can do a lot to help them cope better with weather or other noise phobias. Read more here.
Image by Dr. Karen Becker
DO YOU KNOW WHAT IS NATURAL DOG BEHAVIOUR?
Dogs are social animals and have a wide range of natural behaviours. These behaviours are instinctive and are used to communicate with other dogs and humans. Common natural behaviours in dogs include barking, digging, chasing and chewing. Dogs also display behaviours such as jumping, licking, marking and play-bowing. These behaviours are all natural and help dogs to interact with their environment and with other animals. It is a way to communicate with those who are willing to listen!
What may look like naughty behaviour to you is often just your pet behaving as their species do. There can also be breed-specific traits which are not their fault, like Terriers that dig and will likely always dig!Do you want to better understand your dog and improve your relationship? Then learn about their behaviour. When you know what is natural behaviour you can easily know which “naughty” behaviour to address. One of the five freedoms of animal welfare includes the freedom to express natural behaviours! Read more about some natural behaviours here.
Aggressive behaviour is probably the most common behavioural problem in dogs seen by behaviour professionals and the most dangerous one seen in companion dogs. Many behaviours that people perceive as aggressive are actually normal forms of communication. Behaviour is a common reasons why people surrender animals, especially dogs to shelters and aggression is one of them. The lack of understanding of basic and normal animal behaviour remains part of the problem! Read more about dog bite prevention.
DID YOU PICK THE RIGHT ANIMAL FOR YOUR FAMILY WHEN YOU LOOK AT ENERGY LEVELS?
Dogs, just like people have unique personalities and energy levels (mentally & physically) and it can affect the way your dog responds to you. Dogs that have a lot more energy than their humans often don’t get enough exercise. This is why it’s very important to know your energy level, understand how to determine the dog/pet’s energy level and then choose the right fit for your family taken into account your lifestyle routines too.
Dogtime shares how high-energy dogs are those who are always ready and waiting for action. Originally bred to perform a canine job of some sort, such as a retrieving game for hunters or herding livestock, they have the stamina to put in a full workday. Low-energy dogs on the other hand are the canine equivalent of a human couch potato, content to doze the day away.
Energy levels matter because if you can’t meet that animals’ needs, then it will cause frustration for you and in return the animal pays a price too. Read more about energy levels here.
CAN YOU READ YOUR DOG’S BODY LANGUAGE FROM HEAD TO TAIL?
Most animals use body language as well as sound and smell to communicate with one another. Body language is the movements of animals’ including facial expressions, eye behaviour, posture, and the movement of their body parts and is inherent in all creatures including humans. When we understand body language, we can better understand our pets and meet their needs which will deepen our relationship. Dog bites and fights can also be prevented by better understanding and predicting behaviour.
Many people think that it is easy to ‘read’ their dog, but there are so many subtle signs that are missed. Decoding your pet or another pet’s body language is not as straightforward as looking at a tail wag or the ears. For one, many of these gestures happen at once and context is important too. On top of that, a breeds’ physical appearance can make it even more difficult. Read more about body language here.
Your pets are your responsibility. You need to know how to meet their needs and give them the best possible life. If you can no longer care for them, please surrender them to the SPCA or a reputable animal welfare organization. If you can’t afford to properly care for them or have the time to meet their needs, then don’t get them.
Next week we will share another summary of our recent posts focussed on animal welfare issues.
GMM is wasting water while large areas struggle with water supply
Residents are still struggling with water supply whilst the Rand Water account is now reaching catastrophic proportions.
Bethal residents have been complaining about the water supply. So has the residents of Thistle Grove, eMbalenhle, Emzinoni and Leandra. Even Secunda has experienced water problems.
But if one investigates the issue a bit further it is clear that Govan Mbeki Municipality (GMM) does not have the water supply under control.
The reservoirs next to Adullam Mission are a prime example. Water is gushing out of an overflow pipe (or similar) forming a small stream that filled a small dam. This has been reported to have been happening for up to two months.
GMM has repeatedly tried to shift the blame. Farmers are blamed for allegedly stealing water with illegal connections. Huge leaks are blamed. Even Rand Water was not spared. And finally, the load-shedding also bared the brunt of the accusations.
All the above might contribute to the water problem. But, there is always a but, it does not take away from the fact that one has to have your own house in order. GMM cannot blame people while they are wasting huge amounts of water themselves.
The problem became so bad in Thistle Grove that the residents took to the streets and stopped traffic driving through Kinross. Tyres and other rubble were burned to show their frustration. They even faced the wrath of the Police as police fired rubber bullets at them as they were retreating.
Bethal had to rely on donations from other communities just to have drinking water. The reservoirs are constantly being filled but are rarely enough to supply a large area of the town and Emzinoni.
Eendract and Leslie (Leandra) also regularly report that they are struggling with water.
eMablenhle residents had to endure long times without water also.
The media had been very active in reporting about the water problems in GMM but to no avail. Water trucks were intermittent at best with residents complaining that the water was not clean or that the truck drove so fast that it was unable to get it to stop.
Even Sasol opened water collection points when the lack of water became unbearable in Ext 22 Secunda.
The World Health Organisation describe the basic water needs as “These uses ordinarily include drinking, personal sanitation, washing of clothes, food preparation and personal and household hygiene. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), between 50 and 100 litres of water per person per day are needed to ensure that most basic needs are met and few health concerns arise.“
Chapter 2 of the Constitution of South Africa provides that: “Everyone has the right to have access to sufficient food and water.” To give effect to this right Parliament has enacted the Water Services Act 108 of 1997.
The Water Services Act of 1997 states: “Right of access to basic water supply and basic sanitation
3. ( 1 ) Everyone has a right of access to basic water supply and basic sanitation.
(2) Every water services institution must take reasonable measures to realise these rights.
(3) Every water services authority must, in its water services development plan. provide for measures to realise these rights.
(4) The rights mentioned in this section are subject to the limitations contained in this Act.”
Chapter two of the SA Constitution reads:
Section 27. Health care, food, water and social security
1. Everyone has the right to have access to
a. health care services, including reproductive health care;
b. sufficient food and water; and
c. social security, including, if they are unable to support themselves and their dependants, appropriate social assistance.
2. The state must take reasonable legislative and other measures, within its available resources, to achieve the progressive realisation of each of these rights.
3. No one may be refused emergency medical treatment.
GMM must look after its water reservoirs and sources to be able to provide for the basic needs of its residents.
The lack of proper maintenance and infrastructure repairs/upgrading is slowly but surely starting to bite harder and deeper into the ability to provide good drinking water to the residents of GMM.
Let us hope that GMM will start to care for its infrastructure!
