Voter pull surpasses critical water issue

AN industrial disaster looms, agricultural production is at an all-time low and the brutal reality is that the region’s only remaining water source – the Goedertrouw Dam – has less than 20 weeks of water supply left if it doesn’t rain.

The short end of the stick is that the Zululand region has until September before a total shutdown of the uThungulu District, City of uMhlathuze and its crucial industries.

Manufacturing and agriculture are by far the two largest economic sectors in northern KZN and if no water is available, the financial and socio-economic implications, notwithstanding massive job losses, are inconceivable.

With Richards Bay poised as the gateway to Africa and being home to South Africa’s premier bulk port and industrial hub, time is running out for an urgent short-term water solution.

The provincial government and corporates have already thrown their weight behind the proposed pipeline changes to double the water augmentation from the Tugela River to Goedertrouw Dam, which can provide immediate relief.

Stakeholders within the region waited with bated breath for President Jacob Zuma to discuss government’s strategy to overcome the region’s worst drought during a special Imbizo in Melmoth on Sunday.

The hands-on involvement by President Zuma was described by KZN Premier Senzo Mchunu as a ‘demonstration of strong leadership and decisiveness’.

But the event was found wanting.

Instead of providing clear-cut drought relief solutions, the platform was used to canvass votes with promises of land reform policies.

As with most government events held throughout the country, electioneering overshadowed the real essence of the Imbizo. Even the proposed name change of Melmoth took precedence over the pressing issue of the day – water or the lack of it.

As thousands benefitted from food parcels and several gogos were given water ‘wheelbarrows’ inside the tent, outside there was still no running water in Melmoth.

The water crisis is a ticking time bomb and now requires decisive action and a demonstration of strong leadership.