- President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the recent Bronkhorstspruit water contamination crisis
- At least 408 cases of gastrointestinal illness were recorded across four areas, with many victims being toddlers
- South Africans took to social media to weigh in on Ramaphosa's apology, but many were not impressed
Source: Getty Images
Byron Pillay, a Briefly News journalist, has spent a decade reporting on South Africa's political landscape, crime, and social issues. He worked as a newspaper journalist for 10 years before transitioning to online journalism.
GAUTENG — President Cyril Ramaphosa has apologised to residents affected by the Bronkhorstspruit water contamination crisis, which triggered at least 408 cases of gastrointestinal illness between 7 and 18 October 2026.
Ramaphosa made the remarks on his campaign trail in Daveyton, Ekurhuleni, acknowledging that the national government stepped in after the City of Tshwane failed to maintain proper water treatment standards.
"We are very sorry that it has resulted in the challenge of gastrointestinal illness that has affected a number of people," he said.
Ramaphosa announced that the government established the National Water Crisis Committee to co-ordinate the emergency response and work towards restoring access to safe drinking water for affected households.
What caused the Bronkhorstspruit outbreak?
The crisis stemmed from the local water treatment plant operating without chlorine for three weeks owing to supply shortages.
The situation was compounded by the presence of raw sewage in the Bronkhorstspruit River, which feeds into the treatment system. The outbreak affected communities across Bronkhorstspruit, Zithobeni, Ekandustria and surrounding areas, with many of the reported cases involving toddlers.
South Africans dismiss the apology as insufficient
The announcement drew sharp criticism from members of the public, who questioned whether an apology alone was adequate given the scale of the health emergency.
Eddie Schack commented:
"Don't apologise. Do something for a change."
Stefanus Oosthuizen wrote:
"An apology for the benefit of political support is not an apology. Doing the right thing at the right time is an apology."
Frederick Bauerschmidt called for stronger accountability, stating:
"Cyril, you must take criminal action. To supply water of this nature is a serious offence and failure of human rights. What a disgrace."
Sandy Alexander added:
"Apologies don't help the sick people."
Steven Masemola said:
"Apologise for exposing the people to health issues by denying their basic right to clean and drinkable water, thereafter expect them to vote for the ANC!"
Charles Papago Charlene remarked:
"I bet he is shocked as usual."
Other stories about the Bronkhorstspruit water crisis
- City of Tshwane Mayor Nasiphi Moya hit back at former mayor Cilliers Brink over his statements on the Bronkhorstspruit water crisis.
- Residents across Bronkhorstspruit and nearby areas received urgent instructions on what they cannot use their tap water for.
- The Economic Freedom Fighters and Democratic Alliance filed criminal charges against the City of Tshwane in the wake of the crisis.
Source: Briefly News
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