News

CEDERBERG CARE – STATEMENT  

16 June 2026  

Water Quality & Supply Update – Clanwilliam and Cederberg Areas

The health, safety, and reliable provision of water to all Cederberg communities, including Clanwilliam and surrounding areas, remain our top priority.

1. Water quality testing  
Cederberg Municipality, in partnership with the West Coast District Municipality, conducts regular water sampling in line with SANAS-accredited protocols. Samples are sent to independent, accredited laboratories to verify that water complies with national health and SANS 241 drinking water standards.

2. Current supply measures  
Due to recent flood-related disruptions, we are providing water via tankers and JoJo tanks as an interim measure. As a precaution, residents are advised to boil water before drinking or cooking until further notice. Our teams are working around the clock to restore normal supply before the end of the month.

3. Long-term solutions 
We are advancing medium to long-term  upgrades, including new package plants, to strengthen system resilience. As noted by the Premier of the Western Cape, the Cederberg experienced once-in-200-year flood conditions, similar to other regions in the province and country.

4. Misinformation & social media panic  
Cederberg Municipality strongly condemns the spreading of rumors and false information about water quality on social media and within communities. It is unacceptable and regrettable that certain individuals are sowing panic and using water challenges for political gain instead of being part of the solution. This puts lives at risk and undermines public trust.  

Water sampling must follow strict, controlled protocols to ensure accurate results. We urge residents to refrain from unofficial sampling at public taps, as this produces misleading results. Anyone with concerns must contact our administration or the West Coast District Municipality so samples can be taken and tested by accredited laboratories.

We are in weekly contact with local hospitals and clinics. To date, no spike in waterborne illnesses has been reported.

5. Protecting infrastructure  
Vandalism of JoJo tanks, fittings, and infrastructure damages supply and delays restoration. We appeal to communities to protect these assets and report any suspicious activity.

We continue to work closely with the West Coast District Municipality and Department of Water and Sanitation to provide clean water using water tankers.

#WeAreWorkingAroundTheClock  
#SafeWaterForAll  
#StopThePanic #NoToMisinformation  
#ProtectOurInfrastructure  
#CederbergTogether  

For any enquiries:
Elton Klaasse, Manager: Water  
Tel: 027 482 8000  
Email: eltonk@cederberg.gov.za  

Issued by:
Anthony V Mlata  
Communications & CRM Department, Cederberg Municipality