A recent report by the Human Rights Commission (HRC) following an investigation into sewage pollution and the quality of recreational water in the Eastern Cape confirms serious problems that the Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) and residents of the Kouga Local Municipality have been pointing out for years.
The report clearly shows that the Municipality’s waste water infrastructure is failing and that these failures not only threaten the environment, but also pose a direct risk to public health.
The report indicates that the waste water treatment works (WWTW) at Jeffreys Bay and KwaNomzamo (Humansdorp) are not consistently complying with legal standards.
At both plants, the levels of E. coli and faecal coliforms in the final effluent remain above the permitted limits. This threatens the Swart River, the Seekoei River mouth, the Aston Bay coastline and surrounding recreational areas.
Residents, visitors, fishermen, surfers and children have the right to know when the water is unsafe.
This is not a new problem. Residents have been complaining about sewage spills, foul odours, pollution and poor water quality for years. Previous findings, including reports by the Public Protector (PP), pointed out shortcomings, but compliance remains inadequate.
This is about more than the environment; it is about public health, tourism, local businesses and constitutional rights. Residents pay rates and deserve efficient, safe services.
The Freedom Front Plus, therefore, calls on the Kouga Municipality to:
• immediately implement a comprehensive rehabilitation plan for both treatment works;
• regularly publish transparent water quality reports;
• put effective warning systems in place when water is unsafe;
• prioritise maintenance, security, backup power and treatment capacity;
• provide clear timelines and accountability for upgrades; and
• work with independent experts to meet and maintain legal standards.
There have been some upgrades, but the underlying problem has not been resolved. Residents want measurable results – not just promises.
Kouga’s rivers, estuaries and coastline are precious assets. The Freedom Front Plus will keep holding the Municipality accountable for competent governance and clean, safe water.
