The City of Tshwane issued a warning on 6 November 2026 advising residents in Region 7, specifically those using the natural spring at the Rethabiseng Social Integrated Centre in Bronkhorstspruit, not to drink or use the spring water. Tests have shown the water is unsafe for human consumption due to contamination.
According to a City of Tshwane communication, the spring water may contain harmful germs that cause symptoms such as diarrhoea, stomach cramps, nausea and vomiting. The city urged residents who rely on the spring as an alternative or backup water source to switch to municipal water sources approved or authorised by the municipality.
“Tests have shown that the water is not safe for human consumption,” the City of Tshwane stated. “Please refrain from consuming or utilising the spring water in Rethabiseng,” the municipality added in official notices picked up by multiple media outlets, including YFM and Municipality News.
This advisory forms part of a broader water-quality crisis in Bronkhorstspruit and the wider Region 7 area. The South African government confirmed a serious outbreak of gastrointestinal illnesses during October 2026 linked to contaminated water from the Bronkhorstspruit Water Treatment Works. Between 7 and 18 October, 408 cases of illness were reported, with laboratory tests detecting pathogens such as Norovirus, Campylobacter, Shigella, and very high levels of E. coli and total coliform bacteria in water samples.
A joint statement from the Ministries of Health and Water and Sanitation detailed the contamination and its health impact, noting that the outbreak prompted extensive on-site investigations starting from 13 October.
Despite ongoing disinfection and commissioning efforts, the City of Tshwane confirmed on 3 November that tap water in Bronkhorstspruit remained unsafe to drink. The spring water warning was issued days later, reinforcing the need for residents to avoid untreated natural water sources in the area.
Lindela Mashego, spokesperson for the City of Tshwane, emphasised, “Residents must only use water sources approved or authorised by the municipality to protect their health.”
It remains unclear from available sources whether the spring water was independently tested at the same level as the municipal supply from the treatment works. Reports do not establish a direct link between the spring water itself and the initial contamination outbreak but issue the warning as a precautionary measure within the region’s ongoing water safety concerns.
The City of Tshwane and national health authorities continue monitoring water quality and health impacts in Bronkhorstspruit with further updates expected.