The municipality stated the fleet is crucial to resolving the region’s long-standing sewage crisis. The community group Voice for Change, however, recently raised concerns over the cost of two vacuum jet sewer trucks.

It claimed while a private quote for such vehicles amounts to roughly R10.8 million, municipal records reflect an expenditure of R20 million. “This raises serious questions about financial management, transparency, and accountability,” said Voice for Change, calling for a full investigation into the discrepancy.

In response, the Welkom-based municipality clarified that the trucks are not standard units but advanced Amanzi recycling combination units. These high-specification vehicles, procured through Merafe Holdings via a National Treasury contract, include comprehensive service plans designed for the municipality’s specific industrial needs.

“Claims on social media that the units were procured at inflated prices are misleading and based on inaccurate and incomplete quotations,” said acting municipal manager Thabo Panyane.

The new fleet forms part of a broader strategy to restore service delivery. The trucks allow for simultaneous high-pressure jetting to clear blockages and vacuum suction to remove sludge, significantly speeding up repairs in areas plagued by spills.

The manufacturer, Werner South Africa Pumps and Equipment, confirmed it’s aware of the pricing allegations circulating on social media. The trucks were custom-built to meet the high-performance demands of the municipality’s recovery plan, said national sales manager George Jolly.

Werner South Africa Pumps and Equipment national sales manager George Jolly explains how the trucks work. Photo: Refilwe Bekane

The municipality invited the community to view the trucks during a final handover event, although the vehicles must still undergo final licensing before being deployed on the streets.

The dispute extends beyond the price tag. Voice of Change expressed dissatisfaction with a media briefing on Friday (16/1), claiming it was denied the opportunity to engage with officials. The group highlighted a perceived contradiction in the mayor’s previous stance on the technology.

“The mayor previously warned that such trucks could damage infrastructure, yet the municipality has now bought them. We demand clarity on what changed,” said the organisation’s Tabile David Masunane.

Post-event altercation

The tension reached a breaking point at the end of the media viewing. Following the demonstration of the fleet’s capabilities, an altercation broke out between representatives of Voice for Change and Werner.

During the exchange, Werner representatives reportedly told the group the figures it was citing were based on an incorrect quote. Voice for Change responded with a stern warning to the private firm.

“Werner should stick to its business and not get involved in politics,” said Masunane, asserting the manufacturer’s defence of the municipality was inappropriate.

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OFM News/Refilwe Bekane cvs