NKOMAZI, Mpumalanga — Residents of KaMaqhekeza in the Nkomazi area of Mpumalanga are preparing to make their votes count in the upcoming election, following a critical breakthrough in the long-standing KaMaqhekeza water crisis. After years of struggling to access potable water, recent community protests have successfully pressured the local municipality to repair dysfunctional water pumps and restore supply to household taps.
The restoration of water follows a week of intense demonstrations, during which residents blockaded roads and burned tyres to demand immediate action. While the municipality stated that repairs were already planned, officials noted that the protests initially complicated technicians’ access to the site. However, the direct intervention of Municipal Manager Mr. Oscar Nkosi has reportedly provided a “green light” to resolve the matter, mending a severe breakdown in communication between the community and service providers.
A prominent community spokesperson and resident who has been a leading voice on the ground, confirmed that water is currently flowing from the taps. “We had to take to the streets because the lack of communication had broken down,” he explained. “Now, we have gone back to the drawing board with the municipality to ensure communication is opened again with those accountable for delivering services to us.”
Although the immediate water shortage has been addressed, he cautioned that a permanent resolution remains contingent on upcoming infrastructure upgrades. During a Tuesday visit to the water treatment plant alongside service providers, the community identified that the existing pumps were severely aged. In response, the municipality has promised the delivery of new pumps next week, while the previously blocked units have already been serviced and are actively delivering water.
The restored supply has already shown tangible results across the region. Continuous 24-hour water flow was reported in local areas mid-week, with consistent running water confirmed in KaMaqhekeza by the end of the week as maintenance teams remain active on the ground.
Beyond the water crisis, the mood in the community has shifted toward active civic participation. Voter registration numbers in the area have been strong, with residents turning out in significant numbers to ensure their voices are heard at the ballot box. The spokesperson emphasized a clear, unified message from the community to the governing political parties, particularly the ANC: “Take care of your people, and your people will take care of you.”