The Kimberley Prospector

NORTHERN CAPE – Kimberley residents find themselves in continued uncertainty and frustration as they await crucial updates on the ongoing water interruption. Emergency repairs on two “major leaks” by the Sol Plaatje Municipality have left the city without water, and despite an earlier promise of “Significant Strides” in the progress of the repairs, residents remain in the dark.

An unconfirmed source provided a glimmer of hope around 09:00, suggesting successful drainage and completion of various repair aspects at both Midlands and Sunset Manor. The source hinted at water being restored to areas fed from network offtakes, including Galeshewe and nearby regions, by 18:00 today. Supply to Kimberley CBD and surrounding residential areas was optimistically expected to be reinstated by 18:00 tomorrow on Saturday 25 November, with the possibility of an earlier flow. Relief supply measures were also mentioned, with a media statement promised after 10:30.

However, the scheduled media briefing at 10:00, expected to provide clarity and updates, was abruptly postponed to 14:00. Thabo Mothibi, Sol Plaatje Municipality Communications Manager, extended sincere apologies for the delay, further fueling residents’ frustration.

Councillors and municipal officials have maintained silence on the matter, leaving the community yearning for transparency about the ongoing repairs. Despite positive expectations yesterday, there has been no official confirmation on the completion of welding work, raising concerns about the prolonged delay in information dissemination.

The Diamond Field Advertiser’s earlier estimation of a Saturday resolution appears outdated but still most likely despite the recent updates on the “significant strides” achieved by Sol Plaatje Municipality. Questions linger about the potential impact of the morning rain on progress.

The unnecessary delay in updating the community exacerbates residents’ frustration, especially considering the simultaneous Stage 6 load-shedding. With service delivery emerging as a significant factor in voters’ decisions for the 2024 General Elections, the community is encouraged to voice their concerns using #VoteLikeABok.

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