Press Statement By – Fiona Pelman, DA Councillor in Govan Mbeki Local Municipality
-Govan Mbeki residents are still faced with water challenges while the Secunda reservoir remains non operational.
-The reservoir has been at 95% for a long time.
-We have asked the Department of CoGHSTA to establish the real reason behind the delay.
5 October 2026
Release: Immediate
The Democratic Alliance in Govan Mbeki calls the Department of Co-operative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (CoGHSTA), to institute an investigation into the delayed Extension 22 Reservoir in Secunda.
This project has been characterised by missed deadlines and there is no communication on when it will be completed. Previously, the DA raised the alarm over the reservoir after it had remained at approximately 95% completion since 2025. Despite repeated requests for information and intervention, residents have still not been provided with a clear commissioning date.
During a Council sitting in July 2026, the Municipal Manager informed the DA that it was anticipated that the reservoir would be operational within approximately four weeks. This was not a formal Council item or undertaking, but it provided an indication of the timeframe being anticipated by the administration at the time.
Concerningly, the four-week period has long since passed, and there is still no proper update explaining whether the reservoir has been commissioned, what work remains outstanding, what is causing the continued delays, or when it will finally become operational.
At this point, residents should not have to continuously chase their municipality for basic information about a major infrastructure project that directly affects their water security. The Extension 22 Reservoir is not simply another unfinished municipal project. It is critical water infrastructure intended to improve storage capacity and strengthen Secunda’s resilience during water interruptions and periods of reduced supply.
Noting these challenges, we have asked the Department of CoGHSTA to determine the following:
- the actual percentage of completion of the Extension 22 Reservoir;
- exactly what work remains outstanding;
- the reasons why the project has still not been commissioned;
- whether there are contractual, financial or technical obstacles delaying completion; and
- a definitive date by which the reservoir will be fully operational
The municipality’s inability to complete and commission such infrastructure has led to investors turning their back on Govan Mbeki. As a result, unemployment has increased and the local economy is on a downward spiral.
On 4 November, residents will have an opportunity to decide who they want governing Govan Mbeki Local Municipality. A DA-led municipality would ensure that such infrastructure is completed in time and water is provided to residents at all times.
The DA will continue pursuing this matter until Govan Mbeki provides the answers residents deserve and the Extension 22 Reservoir is finally operational.
For Media Enquiries:
Fiona Pelman
DA Councillor Govan Mbeki Local Municipality
066 279 6069