Limpopo: The Minister of Water and Sanitation, Pemmy Majodina, is currently studying the final report of an independent investigation into the alleged illegal blockages of tributaries feeding the Middle Letaba Dam in Limpopo. Commissioned by former Minister Senzo Mchunu, the investigation was prompted by mounting complaints from local farmers and community members about unlawful obstructions and diversions of watercourses flowing into the dam.
According to South African Government News Agency, these alleged illegal activities are believed to have significantly contributed to the dam’s alarmingly low levels, currently at an approximate 8%. The Middle Letaba Dam, which depends on inflows from the Middle Letaba, Koedoes, and Brandboontjies rivers within the Olifant Catchment Area, is a vital water source for households, agriculture, and industry across the region.
The diminished capacity of the dam has had far-reaching implications, severely limiting the supply of water via the 60 km canal to the Middle Letaba, Mapuve, and Giyani Water Treatment Works, the Department of Water and Sanitation stated. The report, compiled by a panel led by retired Judge Bernard Ngoepe, was handed over to the Minister on Friday, 16 May 2025.
The department indicated that the Minister will announce the department’s course of action in due course. Nonetheless, there is a clear and urgent need to uphold the recommendations of the report to restore accountability, reinforce lawful water governance, and protect the integrity of South Africa’s water resources.