Parliament, Saturday, 17 October 2026 – The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Health, Ms Faith Muthambi, has noted with concern reports of a cluster of gastrointestinal illnesses affecting residents of Bronkhorstspruit and surrounding communities in the City of Tshwane.
Media reports indicate that between 140 and 160 cases were recorded over a six-day period, with patients receiving treatment at Bronkhorstspruit Hospital and other healthcare facilities, including Mamelodi Hospital, Steve Biko Academic Hospital and Wilgers Hospital. Ms Muthambi said that, while it is encouraging that no fatalities have been reported, the number of people affected warrants urgent attention from health authorities and the municipality.
Ms Muthambi welcomed the swift response by the City of Tshwane and the provincial health authorities in investigating the source of the illnesses. She emphasised that, although contaminated water has been identified as one of the possible causes under investigation, the scientific and epidemiological processes must be allowed to establish the precise cause of the outbreak. This will enable the relevant authorities to implement appropriate, targeted interventions to contain the outbreak, prevent further infections and address any underlying risks identified.
“What is concerning about this incident is its potential public health implications, particularly if the outbreak is linked to water quality challenges. Access to safe and clean drinking water is essential to protecting public health, and any threat to water safety must be investigated thoroughly and addressed decisively, without unnecessary delay,” said Ms Muthambi.
The committee is also concerned about the state of wastewater treatment infrastructure in parts of the City of Tshwane, given the potential public health and environmental risks associated with inadequate wastewater treatment and management. Ms Muthambi urged the City of Tshwane and provincial authorities to communicate regularly and transparently with affected communities about confirmed laboratory results and any measures being implemented to protect residents.
The committee further emphasised the importance of ensuring that healthcare facilities remain adequately prepared to manage affected patients, monitor any increase in cases and provide timely treatment. Authorities should also remain vigilant in identifying and responding to additional cases, particularly among vulnerable groups.
Ms Muthambi said the situation must be treated as a public health emergency.
The committee will continue to monitor the situation closely and engage with relevant stakeholders, as necessary, to ensure that the cause of the illnesses is established, appropriate remedial measures are implemented, and the health and well-being of affected communities are protected.
ISSUED BY PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON HEALTH, MS FAITH MUTHAMBI.
For media enquiries or to arrange interviews with the Chairperson, please contact the committee’s Media Officer:
Name: Ms Yoliswa Landu
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Email: ylandu@parliament.gov.za
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