ActionSA takes Lepelle-Nkumpi Water crisis to Human Rights Commission
ActionSA will formally lodge complaints with the South African Human Rights Commission [SAHRC] and the Public Protector in what they say is a humanitarian crisis in Ward 22, Mamaolo, Ga- Mphahlele, under the Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality in Limpopo.
The party says hundreds of residents rely on just two communal taps for their daily water needs. These same taps are also used by livestock, compelling residents to share water sources with animals for one of life’s most basic necessities.
They say no South African should be forced to queue behind animals for clean drinking water in 2026.
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The conditions in Ward 22 are not merely an example of poor service delivery,” said ActionSA Mayoral Candidate in Lepelle Nkumpi Municipality, Paul Mashoene.
“In ActionSA’s view, they constitute a humanitarian crisis and amount to violations of the constitutional rights to equality, human dignity, an environment that is not harmful to health or well-being, and access to sufficient water.
“The failure by the relevant authorities to provide adequate drainage around both communal taps has created stagnant pools of contaminated water”
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According to the party, one of these taps is located immediately adjacent to Maretlwaneng Primary School and the Mongobong Community Creche & Pre-School, where learners are exposed daily to filthy standing water that poses serious public health risks, attracts disease-carrying insects, and creates an unsafe environment for young children.
The party says they will lodge a formal complaint with the South African Human Rights Commission and the Public Protector concerning the alleged failures and maladministration by the relevant public authorities. They also intend to pursue appropriate legal proceedings to enforce the constitutional rights of Ward 22 residents, including proceedings in the Equality Court where the facts and legal assessment warrant such action.
ActionSA says they also demand an urgent investigation into the conduct of the Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality and Capricorn District Municipality.
