Community members plan shutdown in Seshego and Polokwane as taps remain dry

The communities of Seshego and Polokwane have planned a city shutdown on Wednesday when they embark on a march to Polokwane municipality in a bid to have their water woes addressed.

According to community members, residents in Seshego and parts of Polokwane have been experiencing water challenges since August.

Seshego-Polokwane taxi association chairperson United Nemaungani confirmed they will pledge their solidarity to the community.

“The Seshego-Polokwane association, the drivers and owners reside in Seshego so the water challenge is part of us. We know for a fact the municipality is playing games because when there is a protest they will give the community excuses that maybe there is a failure with pumps. They only come when people are protesting,” he said.

Nemaungani said they will transport the protesting community for free to submit their memorandum.

Community leader Vincent Kunutu said they have experienced water shortages for nearly three months. 

“In the past week there was a soccer game and water was returned to our taps, but after Sunday the problem persisted. We are planning to give the mayor our memorandum. We have support from our local taxi association. Bus services are not going to operate tomorrow,” said Kunutu.

No transport services are expected to be operating.

Kunutu said residents were tired as they have on several occasions met with the municipality, which has shifted blame.

“We are paying rates to Polokwane municipality so we expect water from them.” 

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