The Minister of Human Settlements, Water and Sanitation, Lindiwe Sisulu, has received a report from the Acting Director-General, Mr Squire Mahlangu and Astral Directors on the short term solution that has temporarily resolved the water challenges affecting Astral business operations and the Standerton community at large.

The Minister noted that the short term solution has ensured that all Astral employees are back at work and that the plant can operate at maximum level. However, the Minister agreed with Astral that the relevant stakeholders continue to work towards the full implementation of a long term solution.

The Minister thanked the multi-departmental teams that have worked to provide the temporary solution that is currently in place while committing to work with all stakeholders to ensure that the long term solution is implemented as a matter of urgency. The departments which are working on this project include Trade and Industry, Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Water and Sanitation as well as Municipal Infrastructure Support Agent (MISA).

“I have noted that Astral Foods is committed to make available its technical teams and other resources to find a lasting solution not only for their company but for the entire community of Standerton”, said Sisulu.

The Minister has also been made aware of the pending court cases between Lekwa Municipality and Astral as a result of the current water challenges. The Minister underscored that she would like to see these matters resolved out of court now that a long term solution is being worked out and to avoid further wastage of resources by both the state and Astral.

Enquiries: Mr Ndivhuwo Mabaya, 083 645 7838 or ndivhuwo.mabaya@dhs.gov.za



Issued by the Ministry of Human Settlements, Water and Sanitation
Govan Mbeki House
240 Justice Mahomed Street, Sunnyside, Pretoria
0001