Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation, David Mahlobo, addressed local stakeholders at Hartbeespoort Dam, emphasizing dialogue and unity amid ongoing racial tensions over land use.
(The Post News)- Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation, David Mahlobo, met with local business owners, residents, and stakeholders today to address the long-standing racial dispute over state-owned land at Hartbeespoort Dam. The dam, located in the Madibeng Local Municipality, has been a key hub for tourism and local economic activity, but tensions have simmered for years over land usage and access.
Speaking at the engagement held at the Department of Water and Sanitation’s (DWS) Area Office, Deputy Minister Mahlobo stressed the need for dialogue and inclusivity. He encouraged the residents to share their concerns so that they could find a peaceful resolution. Stating that the goal is to ensure that everyone benefits from the opportunities around Hartbeespoort Dam, without any group feeling excluded or marginalized.
The meeting comes after a prolonged racial row between occupiers of the state-owned land, which has caused divisions among local communities. Business owners, in particular, have expressed concerns that the disputes are harming the local economy. One local entrepreneur who has run a tourism business for over a decade highlighted the impact the situation has had on the industry.
“We rely heavily on the flow of tourists to keep our businesses running, but this uncertainty about land access is driving people away,” said the business owner.
He further added that if the government doesn’t step in with clear policies, they will continue to lose income.
In response to these concerns, Mahlobo reassured stakeholders that the department is reviewing its land policies to promote fairness and development. “We understand the critical role this area plays in supporting livelihoods, and we are committed to finding solutions that support both economic growth and community well-being.”
Community leaders also voiced their concerns during the meeting, emphasizing the need for transparency and fair land management. Adding that they have been sidelined for too long. It’s time that the government ensures that the land is used in a way that would benefit all of them
Mahlobo said that he acknowledges their frustrations, noting the historical context of the land disputes. “We must address these imbalances, but our focus is on moving forward together. The dam is an asset to everyone here, and we will make sure that the land around it is used in a way that brings unity and development,” he said.
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