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Tshwane mayor orders probe after plant runs without chlorine

Published

Mayor Nasiphi Moya ordered an independent external investigation into negligence at the Bronkhorstspruit Wastewater Treatment Plant, which went three weeks without chlorination. The plant manager is suspended while the investigation runs.

The lack of chlorination led to contaminated water reaching households. More than 400 people have reported gastrointestinal illnesses, which are believed to be linked to the unchlorinated water.

The City of Tshwane faces criminal charges over the matter. Moya said the city will cooperate with the investigations. She said: "We will fully cooperate and make sure that our participation will correct everything going forward; not only for Bronkhorstspruit but for the entire city."

The South African Human Rights Commission called on the City of Tshwane to update residents. Spokesperson Wisani Baloyi said the continued reports of contaminated water and the health concerns are deeply troubling and need urgent and decisive action.

Key facts

Who
Nasiphi Moya (Tshwane mayor); Wisani Baloyi (spokesperson, South African Human Rights Commission); South African Human Rights Commission (commission calling on the City of Tshwane to update residents); City of Tshwane (municipality responsible for the water supply and facing criminal charges)
What
The Tshwane mayor ordered an independent external probe into the negligence that left the Bronkhorstspruit Wastewater Treatment Plant without chlorination for three weeks, which led to contaminated water being supplied to households. The plant manager has been suspended pending the investigation.
When
24 October 2026
Where
Bronkhorstspruit, Tshwane
Status
Reported

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