Makana's Ward 7 residents face water shortage on voting day

Residents of Makana's Ward 7 in South Africa faced significant challenges on Local Government Elections day, November 4. A water shortage affected voters, who still made their way to polling stations to choose a new Makana council. The issue was not isolated, as broken streets and a lack of jobs also weighed heavily on the minds of voters. These pressing concerns motivated residents to participate in the democratic process.

Vuyani Fiki, a resident who has been voting since 1994, expressed frustration with the water situation. He stated that residents were expected to pay for water, but the supply was cut off at night. This shortage caused difficulties in hosting visitors, particularly during funerals. Fiki's sentiments were echoed by Nomathamsanqa Tom, who pointed to the state of the roads as another concern. Tom, who moved to Tantyi from Extension 4 in Joza, was voting in Makhanda for the second time.

Other residents, such as Cleopatra Songwiqa, also reported experiencing a water shortage in their area. Songwiqa urged the municipality to fix the streets, particularly S Street, which became difficult to navigate during rainy periods. Her wish was for an end to corruption. Bomikazi Kopo, who has voted at Tantyi Hall since 1994, expressed excitement among her children, now in their 20s, who were voting for the first time. Kopo emphasized the desire for change.

Zukisile Budaza, a resident of Ward 10, voted at the Apostolic Faith Mission Church in Ward 7 due to demarcation changes. He stressed that change was long overdue, citing issues with service delivery, including water, housing, and drugs. Zola Msweli, who has lived in Makhanda for eight years, also highlighted the concerns about jobs and water. He expressed hope for improvement in these areas.

At Ntlebi Primary School, Vuyiseka Tyetye emphasized that people's basic needs had to be met. She encouraged young people to vote, as they would bring about change in the future. Sonwabo Nkani stated that he came to the polls for "proper governance." He warned that if people stayed home, governance would continue unchanged. Nkani urged the municipality to address "gross negligence," crime, and corruption in Makana.

The experiences of Ward 7 residents reflect broader challenges facing the community. The water shortage and poor road conditions are indicative of larger service delivery issues. Despite these challenges, residents demonstrated their commitment to the democratic process by casting their ballots.

The concerns raised by voters, including water shortages, poor infrastructure, and unemployment, are critical issues that the new Makana council will need to address. Residents expect tangible improvements in these areas. The enthusiasm and participation of young voters, such as Kopo's children, suggest a desire for change and a willingness to engage in the democratic process.

Key points

• Residents of Makana's Ward 7 faced a water shortage on voting day, highlighting broader service delivery challenges.
• Voters emphasized the need for improved infrastructure, jobs, and an end to corruption.
• Despite challenges, residents demonstrated their commitment to the democratic process by casting their ballots.