Various areas in the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati region continues to be affected by water challenges. Some residents in Cokonyane, Taung Extension, and Vryburg said they have lost hope.
One of the residents, Mmasabatha Mokai said water scarcity affects their livelihoods. Mokai said the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality does not care about their well-being amid COVID-19 pandemic.
“It is so sad to see the municipality ignoring the fact that water is the most pivotal basic need. Water is one of the absolute essentials for life, but we are struggling. We are forced to wake up at around 4am to be able to get water from taps.
“During the day, water taps are running dry and we cannot bathe nor do laundry. We urge the municipality to ensure that we get water regularly. How does the government expect us to adhere to COVID-19 regulations without water?” she asked.
Another resident, Mosimanegape Mosimanetau shared the same sentiments. Mosimanetau said water assists them to maintain proper hygiene.
“Proper hygiene is one of the best ways to ward off preventable diseases. The current COVID-19 pandemic is driving this point home stronger than ever, as hand-washing is one of the best tools we have in slowing the spread of the disease.
“We sometimes spend three days without access to drinking water. However, I can see that the problem is water tinkering. Some individuals are conniving with government officials to ensure that the water tinkering system is in place so that they can benefit,” he said.
However, the embattled executive mayor for the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality, Boitumelo Mahlangu who downplayed the issue, said they are not getting enough water that can be provided to larger communities. However, Mahlangu said there is a bulk water project that they are building and it was supposed to be completed a long time ago.
“The project is about nine years now and we are trying by all means to complete it. The reservoirs are ready but the project has been stopped by unnecessary things that were not even supposed to be the cause.
“Now, we hope that by December, we will be able to provide the whole community of Taung with water. We will also share that water with Naledi and Pudimoe. Remember, there will be things people want to see happening and also we might not have a financial stability to implement whatever they need,” she said.
Mahlangu also added that they will visit the Vaalharts Scheme in Maphoitsile village near Taung and address this matter. The municipality invested R150 million of taxpayers’ money into the VBS Mutual Bank of which R100 million was from the Regional Infrastructure Grant (RIG), while R25 million from the Equitable Share-Free Basic Services and R25 million was from the Building Fund.
Heartfelt condolence messages continue to pour into the Setlhapelo’s family after the passing of Omphemetse “Onketsang” Setlhapelo. A much-loved Vaaltar FM broadcaster is described as the man who mentored and guided many to reach their niche within the radio industry.
Legendary radio personality, Setlhapelo (42) who was known to mesmerised his listeners with a stunning voice, met his untimely death on Saturday night at Jan Kempdorp in Northern Cape. Northern Cape police spokesperson, Capt Sergio Kock said the radio broadcaster was allegedly hit by a car while trying to cross the N18 road.
“The police in Jan Kempdorp are investigating a case of culpable homicide after an alleged accident occurred on the N18 road near Jan Kempdorp Bridge or hiking spot. The incident happened on Saturday just before midnight.
“It is alleged that the pedestrian tried to cross the road when a white Toyota Double cab bakkie hit him. Setlhapelo died on the scene,” Kock said.
He urged anyone with information to contact Detective Constable Modise Mosheo on 0609769057.
Meanwhile, Vaaltar FM’s Board of Directors chairperson, Tsholofelo Moepeng said: “We are profoundly saddened by the untimely death of one of our icons. Onketsang as Setlhapelo was affectionately known to his fans will be missed for his selfless contribution to the success of the station since he was still serving as a presenter years ago.
“His passing will leave a void to be felt not only by Vaaltar FM, but the sector as a whole. It is against the backdrop of the above that in memory of this handsome man, Vaaltar FM will intensify its struggle to realise that this indispensable community radio project lives up to its historic mandate of being the voice of the voiceless and the centre for excellence.”
Moepeng added that as the Board of the station, they still believe that there is no other medium of broadcast most relevant to the communities similar to that of Greater Taung and its surrounding population with similar socio-economic setting. He said ideally, this serves as a clarion call for concerted efforts in support and sustenance of this crucial community asset from everyone.
“We extend our deepest sympathy to Setlhapelo’s colleagues and co-workers at the station, as well as to his friends across the wider society. Vaaltar FM wishes to extend special condolences to the family and relatives of Mr Setlhapelo that God has not forsaken them and their loss is ours and we share the same tears.
“It is for this reason that we dip our banner in respect of this radio guru who fought for, and lived his dreams, in the face of heavy critics. The invitation is hereby extended to all to come in multitudes and join the march alongside Onketsang’s mortal remains in the last journey to his resting place at Pudumoe on Sunday,” he said.
Setlhapelo was serving as the Programmes Manager at the station during his passing. One of his colleagues, Bontle Riet shared the same sentiments. Riet said in this tragic moment, they must celebrate the long life lived by Setlhapelo, instead of letting those happy memories fade away in mourning.
“I know words do little to ease the pain we feel because such a lovely soul passed on. My thoughts and prayers are with the Setlhapelo family. It was a joy to work in the presence of Mr. Omphemetse Penrose Setlhapelo.
“This loss is felt by many. May the memories of his wonderful personality and many contributions be celebrated by all,” she said.
Vaaltar FM will hold a memorial service for Setlhapelo on Friday at 3pm, while his funeral will take place at his home in Pudumoe Township near Taung on Sunday.
The Guardian 
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