The SAHRC is set to begin holding public hearings over the water challenges that have affected various communities across Gauteng province.
Water-challenged communities across Gauteng have expressed mixed feelings following the South African Human Rights Commission's (SAHRC) announcement of an investigation into the ongoing water crisis impacting numerous communities and schools across the province. The SAHRC has confirmed that this investigation aligns with its mandate to promote, protect, and monitor human rights in South Africa, particularly as residents endure persistent water shortages that threaten their health and well-being.
In a statement, the SAHRC said it is concerned that the ongoing water crisis has severely impacted communities across the province, particularly poor and marginalised communities, residents of informal settlements, schools, healthcare facilities, and social care institutions.
"The recurring disruptions in water supply raise serious concerns regarding the enjoyment of several constitutional rights, including the rights to dignity, equality, life, healthcare, a healthy environment, and access to sufficient water," it said.
Reacting to the SAHRC probe, Ravi Singh, from the Water Crisis Committee in the City of Johannesburg, indicated that when the challenges affecting communities in areas such as Westdene, Eastgate, Kensington, and other parts of the City emerged, the committee took its complaints to the SAHRC, the Public Protector, and other institutions.
