This is not a way to live  [letter to the editor] 

Thabazimbi – Every time we turn our taps in Thabazimbi, it’s like rolling a dice. I never know if there will be water or not. And it’s always the same old story: no water because “oops, a pipe burst... again.” When we, the ever-patient residents, ask why it’s not fixed, we get a tired tune of “We did, but look, the pipe burst again just a few meters away. Surprise, surprise!”

The Thabazimbi Local Municipality seems to be competing for a world record in coming up with excuses for not fixing our basic water system. The usual whisper about “no funds” has become our town’s unofficial theme song. Makes you wonder, where do our rates and taxes actually go? 

And let’s not overlook Magalies Water, the star of this sad show. They’ve got the knack for delivering less water than we need because, apparently, our municipality doesn’t pay the bills on time… or they don’t pay the full amount due… 

Having water for just one hour a day isn’t some quirky local tradition – it’s a real problem. Miss that golden hour to fill your JoJo tank, and you’re pretty much left high and dry. Planning your day around this water game feels like you’re on a survival show, where doing basic things like showering, washing dishes, and cleaning your house feels like a luxury. Washing clothes is a whole other drama; my washing machine is picky and only works with strong pressure from the JoJo tank. But then, what about all the other stuff we need water for?

And when it does rain our plants look like they’re about to faint from shock. 

So, here’s a thought: when will our municipality actually come up with a real, long-lasting solution? One that doesn’t involve patching things up and crossing fingers, but actually lets the people of Thabazimbi have a reliable water supply?

Until that day comes, we stay #Frustrated and #Waterless. 
#DriedUpPatience