Residents in Eastern Cape’s Makhanda are currently living through the worst drought ever recorded in the town’s history. This has led to drastic measures being taken up in the form of water restrictions and prohibiting the consumption of any tap water.
Water-borne diseases, failing sewage infrastructure and toxicity of water are just a few problems that have arisen from this crisis. Along with the corrupt and disorganised management of the municipality, the water situation seems to be far from resolved. Water expert Dr Anthony Turton pointed out that the water crisis in Makhanda is a reflection of other Eastern Cape municipalities. “What’s happening in Makhanda is an example of what is happening in at least 60% of our municipalities,” stated Turton.
Rhodes University has been one of the central aspects in Makhanda since 1904. The institution has approximately 8200 students with almost 50% of them staying in residences on campus. The water crisis has created many challenges for students both off campus and in residences. “It really is an inconvenience, particularly in res where we are sharing water with up to 100 other people," says Achume Sidiyo, a third year Rhodes student living in Helen Joseph residence. “When they put the meter on to ration the water, some people use more than their allocated share which puts other people, who use water sparingly, at a great disadvantage.”
Sidiyo also stated that maintaining hygiene has become difficult and there is a big fear regarding the spreading of diseases. "For example, panic regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19) has also heightened even more amongst the students since they are encouraged to maintain hygiene through, for example, washing their hands yet some of the water in buildings, such as Eden Grove, seem to be permanently switched off."
Laura du Toit, a third-year student who stays off campus, stated that water restrictions have caused her great stress. “Having to walk with 5- litre bottles to and from Pick ‘n Pay has not been easy and is not a quick trip. Also having to cook without water then being forced to leave your dirty dishes overnight is never pleasant.”
Yet, some students have not felt that much stress from the water situation. A student and permanent resident in Makhanda, Maka Makoni, stated that she has become so immune to the water shortages, it is no longer a bother to her. “The spontaneity is annoying, but it hasn’t caused more stress for me as a student.” Her views agreed with first year student Asavela Qongqo. “I only think about it when I need to use the toilet or something but other than that it hasn’t really been an issue for me.”
The sad reality of it all, is the affect it is having on people in the poorer settlements in Makhanda. The health, hygiene and sanitation affect the poor and sickly people the most. Students are fortunate enough to not experience the worst of the water crisis. The strength of the townspeople has been truly inspiring yet the lack of action from government has led to citizens raising their disapproval.
The work by the Unemployed People's Movement (UPM), other civil organisations and Makhanda citizens has led the the dissolvement of Makhanda Municipality. It was placed under administration on 14 January 2020.
One can only hope that this will lead to more drastic measures being out in place to bring about change and relief to the scenic town of Makhanda.
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