Q and a Session with Mayoral Spokesperson Mgobozi Regarding Water Tankers

Samkelo Mgobozi
Tshwane Mayoral Spokesperson

By Samkelo Mgobozi
Tshwane Mayoral Spokesperson

The City of Tshwane is implementing targeted adjustments to its water tankering programme as part of the _Wate Stabilisation Plan_ and a transition to a more sustainable, municipal-led service model.

This reflects a clear shift from an emergency, outsourced response to a controlled, internally driven approach that strengthens accountability, improves efficiency, and restores long-term system stability.

This transition ensures that emergency assistance continues where required, while the City works to restore reliable water supply through the network and reduce reliance on tankers over time.

1. Are existing private tanker contracts being terminated?

The City is phasing out contracts as part of a structured transition away from outsourced services.

From 1 April 2026, tanker services moved to a fully municipal-led model, with reliance on private providers now being progressively reduced as internal capacity continues to expand.

This approach has ensured continuity of service while restoring control, improving accountability, and reducing long-term costs.

2. How were the new municipal water tankers financed?

All newly acquired municipal water tankers have been purchased outright through City-owned funding.

There is no reliance on credit or external financing for these acquisitions.

3. What is the cost of the newly acquired water tankers?

The cost of the municipal water tankers is approximately R2.4 million per unit on average, depending on size.

A total of 22 tankers are being procured in the current financial year, with 13 already delivered to date.

It must also be noted that changes to the way in which we have already begun to utilise external tanker services has already yielded positive results by making the city a savings of R12 million per month.