This comes as the Northern Cape capital battles recurring water interruptions, negatively impacting local businesses. Nocci CEO Sharon Steyn, says the workshop is meant to explain the interruptions, which she says have been intermittently for the last four years.

Organised business believes that negligence – more than anything - is at the heart of the interruptions. Reports indicate there are numerous leaks in the bulk supply pipelines between the Riverton Water Treatment Plant and the city, leaving the Newton Reservoir in the main at critically low levels. 

Steyn intends to question the local municipality during the workshop on their repair processes, including having engineers on-site when leaking pipes are being patched. 

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Adding to the mounting frustration is the haphazard communication from the local municipality when it comes to the interruptions. The Nocci CEO says the communication on the interruptions is often unclear or non-existent. Ultimately this hampers local businesses and establishments. 

Water interruptions leading to small businesses closing their doors

It is alleged, at this stage one business in the area has closed down owing to these systemic challenges, with two considering the prospect of closing their doors.

ALSO READ: Kimberley's water leak repairs progressing well

Steyn said even if you have a Jojo tank, a lot of time is taken away from business operations to make up for the water supply interruptions. In the long term, it's not sustainable.

Steyn has indicated that Nocci will provide feedback on the workshop with their stakeholders.

This is a developing story.

OFM Business Hour