Greater Fochville Committee Raises Alarm Over Dire Water Conditions in Kokosi

Karen Scheepers
4 hours ago
2 min read

The Greater Fochville Water Crisis Committee has issued an urgent public appeal highlighting deteriorating conditions at Retilie Primary School and nearby clinics in Kokosi, where severe water shortages have left pupils and residents facing alarming sanitation and health challenges.

🚨 Water Crisis at Local Schools and Clinics

According to the committee, Retilie Primary School has reached a point of crisis. Toilets cannot be flushed due to the ongoing lack of running water, resulting in foul odours and unsafe conditions. Reports describe classrooms where children are exposed to maggots, poor sanitation, and the spread of disease.

Residents expressed deep frustration over water tankers being used inconsistently, claiming some drivers prioritize certain areas based on alleged corrupt arrangements. The committee stated that some contractors are reportedly paid as much as R8000 per truck to ensure delivery to select locations, leaving others neglected.

Children in affected schools are forced to fetch water themselves, impacting learning and infringing upon their right to basic hygiene, health, and education.

🧒 A Call for Accountability and Urgent Action

Community leaders, including Buti Elliot Mtembu of the Greater Fochville Water Crisis Forum, condemned the ongoing neglect. “Residents want nothing more than consistent running water — not selective deliveries that benefit the few,” the committee noted in its statement.

The Forum emphasized that both Merafong City Local Municipality and Rand Water must urgently find a solution to restore water supply. Despite reports of negotiations, discussions between the two entities are believed to have reached a deadlock, prompting renewed public pressure for intervention.

In response, the committee announced plans for a peaceful protest on Thursday, 14 November 2025, where Kokosi and Fochville residents will march to the Rand Water’s Head Office. Residents are expected to demand an immediate and sustainable resolution to the ongoing water supply failure.

⚖️ Human Rights and Public Oversight

The committee reported that clinics in the same area face similar challenges, with patients and healthcare workers operating under unsafe and unhygienic conditions. The group has vowed to pursue legal, civic, and political avenues to ensure accountability for the continued neglect.

While the committee has withheld images of the affected areas “due to the sensitive nature of the visuals,” they have encouraged journalists, officials, and observers to visit the school and clinics to witness conditions firsthand.

The Forum’s statement urged government departments, NGOs, and local partners to join in safeguarding basic human rights, especially those of vulnerable children.

🏛️ Council Meeting to Address Regional Concerns

Meanwhile, the Merafong City Local Municipality will hold its Ordinary Council Meeting on Thursday, 30 October 2025, at 10:00 AM in the New Council Chambers, No. 3 Halite Street, Carletonville.While the official agenda has not been disclosed, residents and civic organizations are expected to call for urgent inclusion of the water crisis affecting Kokosi, Fochville, and surrounding areas.

💬 Community Determination Amid Crisis

The Greater Fochville Water Crisis Forum stated that this struggle is not merely about access to water, but about dignity, accountability, and justice. Community members remain hopeful that sustained public pressure and responsible governance will result in lasting solutions.

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