SIU given green light to broaden probe into serious maladministration claims in DWS

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has been given the green light to broaden its probe into allegations of serious maladministration in the Department of Water and Sanitation.

This after President Cyril Ramaphosa signed a proclamation expanding the SIU's probe into the "War on Leaks" programme to include the "Drop the Block" project.

The investigation was initially limited to the water and sanitation department and Sedibeng Water but will now also include water utility, Lepelle Northern Water.

The War on Leaks programme was launched by then-President Jacob Zuma in 2015 to train at least 15,000 young people to reduce water losses through leaks.

Nomvula Mokonyane was water and sanitation minister at the time.

When the SIU launched the investigation, it had raised concerns about inflated costs, the irregular appointment of service providers and other irregular expenditure.

To further reduce water consumption, the Department of Water and Sanitation launched its "Drop the Block" campaign in 2018.

The implementation of both initiatives is under scrutiny.

SIU spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago: "The amendment also extends the time frame of the investigation, which will now start from 1 January 2015 and end on 12 September 2025."

Kganygo said the investigation includes suppliers or service providers appointed by the department and the water utilities.

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