Water pump operators responsible for supplying water to rural communities gathered at municipal offices in the North West province, demanding permanent employment, proper working tools, and fair remuneration.
The operators, who ensure sufficient water supply to villages across the Ngaka Modiri Molema District, say they currently receive a monthly stipend of merely 2,000 rand, from which UIF deductions are made. Some report not receiving even this stipend consistently. Many have served in their roles for more than 12 years without formal employment contracts.
Protesters spent the night outside the municipal offices braving cold weather to ensure their message reached management. Their actions resulted in disrupted municipal operations, with staff unable to access workstations as offices remained closed during the demonstration.
“We want the employer to come and address the terms and reference of our contract employment contract with us,” said a water pump operator spokesperson addressing the gathering. “We feel that the contract that they gave us is a shame contract because the contract states that we are volunteers, and while we are volunteers every month the employer is deducting UIF. According to South African labor law, anyone that is being deducted UIF from is considered as a worker, not a volunteer. Now we feel like the employer is cheating us in terms of his contract.”
Beyond employment status, operators highlighted hazardous working conditions. They operate generators in rural areas where they encounter dangers such as snakes and exposure to petrol fumes, yet lack adequate personal protective equipment (PPE). Several also reported using their own electricity and personal funds to purchase diesel to keep water pumps running.
The group is calling for a minimum wage that would allow them to afford basic living expenses and provide for their families. They seek a clear commitment from municipal officials toward permanent employment and the provision of proper tools and safety gear.
Municipal management arrived during the morning and engaged with operator representatives inside the offices. As discussions continued, workers remained outside awaiting outcomes.
The protest underscores ongoing challenges in rural service delivery and labor conditions within municipal water infrastructure roles.
