The Kimberley Prospector

A growing number of Kimberley residents are grappling with severe water shortages, with numerous reports of prolonged interruptions and, in some instances, enduring days without water. The Kimberley Prospector has amassed a total of 242 responses through the I Have No Water Form, with 56 of these responses received between January 28 and 30. These responses have been included in a formal complaint submitted to the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) and detailed in a letter of complaint forwarded to the Water Tribunal.

Widespread Impact

The responses highlight the widespread impact of the water crisis on various suburbs in Kimberley reliant on water supply from the Newton Reservoir. Residents have expressed difficulties in daily tasks such as cleaning, doing dishes, and even showering, with the situation leading to emotional distress.

Financial Strain and Emotional Distress

Residents in Klisserville and Beaconsfield expressed frustration, stating that monthly payments for water are made despite the lack of a reliable water supply. Square Hill Park residents shared concerns about the health of an 86-year-old resident, who was discharged from Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe Hospital (Kimberley Hospital) due to the lack of water and is scheduled to return on Monday, January 29.

Violation of Constitutional Rights

In several responses, residents emphasized the violation of their constitutional right to clean water, labelling the situation as a basic human rights abuse. The recurring theme in the responses is the lack of reliability in the water supply, making it challenging for residents to plan their daily routines and maintain a decent quality of life.

Criticism of Sol Plaatje Municipality

The complaints extend to the Sol Plaatje Municipality, with residents expressing frustration over the municipality’s apparent incompetence in addressing the infrastructure issues leading to the water crisis. Some residents questioned the municipality’s ability to manage service delivery, calling for urgent intervention.

Formal Complaints and Legal Action

The compiled responses have not only shed light on the extent of the water crisis but have also triggered formal complaints to regulatory bodies. A formal complaint has been submitted to the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC), emphasizing the urgency of addressing the violation of residents’ rights to clean water. Additionally, a detailed letter of complaint has been forwarded to the Water Tribunal, seeking a comprehensive investigation into the infrastructure issues contributing to the ongoing water interruptions.

Community Urgency and Call for Intervention

The situation has reached a critical point, with residents urgently calling for intervention to rectify the persistent water interruptions. The emotional and financial toll on the community is evident, and the hope is that the formal complaints will expedite corrective action by the relevant authorities.

The list of most severely affected suburbs includes:

In no particular order.

• Beaconsfield Lower Herlear
• CBD (Central Business District)
• Lower Herlear
• Ronald’s Vlei
• South Ridge
• Klisserville
• Beaconsfield
• Roodepan
• West End
• Hadison Park
• Kimdustria
• Labrham
• De Beers
• Square Hill Park
• Hillcrest
• El Toro Park
• Royldene
• Belgravia
• Squarehill Park
• Verwoerdpark
• Herlear
• Memorial Road Area
• New Park
• Monument Heights

Residents from these suburbs have reported varying degrees of water interruptions, with some facing prolonged periods without water. The widespread impact underscores the urgency of addressing the water crisis in Kimberley.

Based on the experiences of the residents as outlined in their responses, the following human rights may be implicated:

• Right to Water: Residents are facing prolonged interruptions and, in some cases, days without water, impacting their ability to carry out daily tasks, maintain hygiene, and fulfil basic needs.
  
• Right to Dignity: The lack of access to water affects residents’ ability to maintain personal hygiene, resulting in feelings of frustration, depression, and a sense of helplessness.
  
• Right to Health: The water interruptions have consequences for residents’ health, with reports of an 86-year-old being discharged from the hospital due to the lack of water, only to face potential readmission.
  
• Right to an Environment Not Harmful to Health or Well-being: The poor quality of water, including its smell and taste, raises concerns about the suitability of the water for consumption, impacting residents’ overall well-being.
  
• Right to Housing: Access to water is essential for maintaining proper hygiene within households, and the lack of water affects residents’ ability to maintain their homes adequately.
  
• Right to Basic Education: The interruptions make it difficult for students to maintain personal hygiene and attend school with clean uniforms.
  
• Right to Freedom and Security of the Person: Residents express feelings of frustration, helplessness, and insecurity due to the water crisis, impacting their overall sense of security.
  
• Right to an Effective Remedy: Residents are submitting complaints to the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) and the Water Tribunal, seeking redress for the violations of their rights.

It’s important to note that the experiences detailed in the responses suggest a broader impact on the residents’ overall well-being and the enjoyment of various human rights.

As the complaints continue to mount, residents are now demanding accountability and an immediate reprieve from the ongoing water crisis. The Kimberley Prospector will continue to monitor the situation and keep the community informed of any developments.