Several parts of South Africa, including Johannesburg, have been facing irregular water supplies, with some communities going without running water for extended periods. In particular, residents of Hammanskraal, a township located about 100 kilometers north of Johannesburg, have struggled with inconsistent access to clean water for more than ten years. To address this issue, the local municipality has been funding water tanker deliveries to provide drinking water to the affected population.
Local political groups, such as the Democratic Alliance, have raised concerns about the involvement of organized criminal groups, often referred to as water mafias, who are believed to be exploiting the ongoing water scarcity. These gangs are accused of taking advantage of the crisis for their own gain, complicating efforts to ensure reliable water access for residents. The situation highlights the challenges faced by South African communities in securing a stable water supply amid broader infrastructural and governance issues.