KNYSNA - Housing shortages and persistent sewage spills are among the biggest challenges facing residents in Knysna ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections.
Resident Jovan Maritz says the lack of housing over the past 15 to 20 years has forced people to build homes in areas not equipped to accommodate them, placing additional strain on an ageing sewage infrastructure.
Maritz says the municipality’s sewerage pipes have not kept pace with the town’s growth, with infrastructure in some areas reportedly last upgraded during apartheid.
“All the political parties that have governed Knysna are part of the problem. They always make the surface look good here in Knysna, but underneath, it is absolutely rotten,” Maritz says.
Water shortages are another major concern. Maritz says the community went without water for three months and alleges that water supplies are sometimes interrupted during storms, while water tankers appear in the area.
Residents want reliable access to clean running water, urgent upgrades to sewage infrastructure and more housing.
Maritz also expressed concern about the health risks posed by sewage spills, particularly for children, warning of the potential spread of diseases such as cholera.
Despite the challenges, Maritz says there is little faith that the upcoming elections will bring immediate change. Instead, they hope the community will unite and hold the incoming leadership accountable during its first 100 days in office.
“At the end of the day, we forget this is our tax money that they are using to help us. They are public servants, and they seem to forget that,” Maritz says.