Johannesburg MMC for Environment and Infrastructure Services, Jack Sekeiwale office, Meets with Phumla Mqashi Leaders Over Illegal Water Connections

The City of Johannesburg's Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Environment and Infrastructure Services, Jack Sekeiwale, recently held a meeting with community leaders from Phumla Mqashi following frustration over Johannesburg Water's decision to disconnect illegal water connections in the area.

The MMC's office reassured the community that Johannesburg Water would continue to provide water through tanker services until the area is officially proclaimed, but also made it clear that all illegal water connections would be disconnected to safeguard the city's water system.

Patrick Nethavhani, the Deputy Director of Communication for the MMC's office, explained that the illegal connections were putting a strain on the water system. He also highlighted that the legal proclamation of land, which is essential for establishing official water and electricity connections, falls under the authority of the Human Settlements Department. Only once the land is legally recognized can these essential services be provided.

Nethavhani urged the community to engage with officials from the Human Settlements Department to understand the steps necessary for obtaining legal recognition of their land. 

I reached out to the Human Settlements Department to clarify the timeline for the legalization of Phumla Mqashi, with the community awaiting more information on when they can expect full legal recognition and access to water and electricity services.