Gauteng government defends itself amid ongoing sanitation crisis in Emfuleni Local Municipality

VEREENIGING - The Gauteng government has defended its decision to stop funding a sanitation program in the Emfuleni Local Municipality, despite growing concern over unhygienic conditions. In the Ramaphosa informal settlement in Vereeniging, mobile toilets have not been cleaned or emptied since February, leaving residents exposed to foul smells and serious health risks. Gauteng Human Settlements spokesperson Tahir Sema says the province informed Emfuleni last year that the funding was only temporary. Sema said basic sanitation is the municipality’s responsibility, and is urging local authorities to urgently find new funding and partnerships. Emfuleni Municipality admits it doesn’t have the budget to take over the programme and says it may take five more months before the toilets can be cleaned. Despite the visibly clean streets, residents say the foul stench from the unserviced toilets is unbearable. Some contain worms and discoloured liquid, highlighting the public health risk. Residents remain frustrated as government departments shift blame.