The Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation, Hon. Sello Seitlholo, on Saturday, 28 June 2025, led a stakeholder engagement aimed at addressing the ongoing water challenges affecting Vaalkop Dam.
The engagement followed an oversight visit to the dam, where stakeholders assessed the severity of the situation and explored collaborative efforts to improve the state of the dam and surrounding water systems.
The session brought together government officials, municipal representatives, and other stakeholders.
In her opening remarks, Acting Mayor Cllr Dithothi Tshetlhane welcomed participants and highlighted the significance of the engagement. “We are honored to gather here today to discuss and find ways to address the challenges facing Vaalkop Dam.
Let us engage openly and advise one another on a sustainable way forward,” she said.
Deputy Minister Hon. Sello Seitlholo emphasized the urgency of addressing water management issues across the country. “This matter has been elevated as a priority by the President in the State of the Nation Address. South Africa is a water-scarce country, and our behavior in managing this vital resource must improve,” he said.
He expressed concern over the deteriorating condition of Vaalkop Dam, which is currently about 95% covered by invasive species.
The Deputy Minister attributed the situation to factors such as aging infrastructure.
Calling for swift intervention, he urged stakeholders to accelerate the implementation of response measures. “We cannot wait while our water sources continue to face pressure,” he stated.
The Deputy Minister also called for the introduction of water education initiatives in schools and communities, to raise awareness about the importance of water conservation and the broader water value chain.
Discussions during the session focused on both upstream and downstream activities impacting Vaalkop Dam, with inputs highlighting how various contributing factors from surrounding areas affect the dam.
The engagement concluded with a strong commitment from all stakeholders to work together to restore the dam’s condition and ensure the long-term sustainability of water supply for the communities that rely on it.
Ends
Issued by Communication Unit