Spokesperson for the Pule Maile Foundation Shima Mahlatsi said the project represents hope, dignity and a shared commitment to improving the quality of life of 45,000 households, including schools, businesses and churches.

The municipality has for years faced serious challenges linked to water and sanitation, including a failing sewerage system, non-operational water treatment plants and ongoing watershedding. 

These challenges have raised concerns about public health and the environment, while opposition parties and communities have repeatedly called for urgent intervention. Mahlatsi said residents in several parts of Old Thabong have particularly struggled with reliable access to clean water.

“For many years, residents of Old Thabong, including Themba, Mokotedi, Thelerine, Thulamntwana, Las Vegas, Phahameng, Soweto, Mshengoville and surrounding sections, have experienced challenges relating to reliable access to clean water. 

“This project seeks to contribute towards addressing those challenges by investing in sustainable water infrastructure that will benefit present and future generations.”

The project has also received support from community members, with arrangements in place to protect the newly installed infrastructure.

“Through the foundation’s initiatives, the school personnel and the school security are guarding it 24 hours. An agreement has been reached that we will all protect the borehole. There are community members who have volunteered to guard the borehole. The school is also near the police station.”Mahlatsi acknowledged the provision of water remains a constitutional responsibility of municipalities, but said civil society organisations and foundations also have a role to play when communities are not receiving adequate services.

“In terms of the Constitution of South Africa, it is the responsibility of the municipality to provide water to residents. But when the municipality is failing, or it cannot meet its obligations due to a variety of reasons. 

“Foundations like these need to rise up and provide for the people. We are also engaged in the municipality and relevant authorities to comply with relevant legislation for this borehole project to be a success.” 

He said more details about the project, including funding and its partners, would be made available in the long run, while emphasising the Pule Maile Foundation and Lebo Records remain the custodians of the initiative. 

Mahlatsi said the project was not primarily intended to expose or hold the municipality accountable, arguing residents themselves have a role to play in demanding accountability. The immediate objective was to ensure people gain access to a basic necessity.

Lifeline

The foundation believes “water is life” and access to reliable water can make a meaningful difference in the daily lives of families, learners and communities. The borehole at Mojaho Primary School therefore represents more than an infrastructure project. 

For residents who have endured prolonged water insecurity, it offers a potential lifeline and demonstrates how community partnerships can contribute to addressing urgent service delivery challenges.

“Together, we are laying the foundation for a brighter future, one where every family has access to clean water and every child can look forward to healthier opportunities.”

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi dg

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