BABANANGO, KwaZulu-Natal — Deputy President Paul Mashatile is set to officially launch the Babanango Water Supply Scheme at the Nhlengile Spring Water Treatment Plant, marking a historic milestone for residents who have waited decades for reliable, clean drinking water. This major infrastructure initiative is designed to significantly improve water access for communities across the Zululand and Umzinyathi municipalities, finally ending the long-standing struggle of residents being forced to share river water with livestock.
For years, households in the area faced severe water shortages, compelling them to seek alternative sources at nearby rivers. Local residents described the dire conditions of the past, noting that they previously had to collect water alongside horses, donkeys, and even dogs swimming in the same source. Today, the community celebrates a major shift, reporting that clean water has been consistently flowing from their taps for several weeks. This reliable supply has restored the ability to cook and wash without the constant anxiety of taps running dry.
A local Induna, serving as a community spokesperson, expressed profound gratitude to the government for the intervention, describing the arrival of clean water as a long-awaited blessing. However, the traditional leader also provided a candid assessment of the project’s current reach, highlighting that the present success represents only Phase 1 of the broader rollout.
According to the Induna, Phases 2 and 3 are still pending, leaving several communities without access. Specifically, four villages in the Amavudi area and more than 20 locations within the local chief’s jurisdiction are still awaiting connection to the municipal water grid. The spokesperson noted that while the area is vast, the traditional leadership remains hopeful and is actively engaging with authorities to ensure these remaining areas are not left behind.
Department officials visited the region last month to assure residents that expansion work is actively continuing. In tandem with government efforts, the Induna emphasized the community’s strong commitment to protecting the newly installed infrastructure. Residents have pledged to work collaboratively to prevent vandalism, stating they will promptly report any suspicious activities or potential damage to the facilities to ensure the long-term sustainability of the Babanango Water Supply Scheme.
