The sewage and filth flooding the streets of Middelburg has become a commonplace issue, forcing residents to trudge through the muck. As health issues such as rashes, respiratory problems, and loss of appetite are mounting, their frustration is mounting. The wastewater treatment plant, operating at a fraction of its capacity for years, symbolizes the neglect. Municipal manager Gcobani Mashiyi said a technical team had been permanently deployed to the area to tackle recurring sewer spillages. The problem was caused by old infrastructure, theft, and vandalism.
The stomach-churning smell of sewage hung in the air, particularly in the Midros and Lusaka areas, where large pools of sludge and untreated sewage filled potholes, streets, rivers, and small streams. The streets were also filled with rubbish. Illegal dumping has further worsened the problem, with piles of refuse mushrooming.
In a field beside a canal, children played soccer, casually acknowledging the persistent challenges. However, parents and residents were concerned about the younger generation's apparent acceptance of the situation as normal. Maria Lekay, 52, and Renaldo Hector, 23, are concerned about the raw sewage which flows into a stream near their home in Midros, Middelburg. Councillor Johan van der Merwe said the issue was beyond repair and that the problem could have been entirely prevented had the wastewater treatment plant been functioning as intended.
Mashiyi said they had started efforts to clean the town last week, including clearing the ditch and trench at the soccer field in Midros, ensuring a safe and healthy environment for children and the community at large. However, they encountered challenges such as sewer lines clogged with foreign objects, including bricks, diapers, clothing material, and sanitary towels. Recurring spillages were caused by Lusaka houses built above the municipality's sewerage infrastructure.
The district municipality will be forced to divert the line, which will require budget allocation. However, dedicated teams are diligently addressing these obstructions. The municipality is conducting major repairs to the wastewater treatment plant in Middelburg to ensure optimal functionality. Such repairs will be completed in May.
Dr Angelique Coetzee, a member of the SA Business Confederation subcommittee on health chair and Solidarity health advisory board committee member, said raw sewage posed significant health risks. She said that untreated sewage can contaminate water sources, soil, and air, and that pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites thrive in sewage and can cause illnesses like gastrointestinal infections, diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach cramps when ingested or come into contact with open wounds.
