Gift of the Givers Defy ‘Water Mafia’ Threats While Serving Eastern Cape Flood Victims

Humanitarian group stands firm as profiteers target clean water deliveries in flood-hit Mthatha

In the face of death, disaster, and desperation, some people still see an opportunity to profit. That grim reality was exposed this week when volunteers from Gift of the Givers were intimidated by an alleged “water mafia” while delivering essential supplies to flood-affected residents in Mthatha, Eastern Cape.

The province is still reeling from devastating floods that claimed at least 90 lives, destroyed homes, and left thousands without clean water. Amid this crisis, one of South Africa’s most respected humanitarian organisations found itself under threat not from the weather, but from criminal profiteers.

Threats Against Those Bringing Relief

Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, founder of Gift of the Givers, didn’t mince words. “Given the hardships and difficulties of the people and the fact that 90 people have passed on, the behaviour of the water mafia is totally disgusting,” he said.

The organisation’s water tankers were targeted by men in a black Toyota Fortuner, believed to be linked to a syndicate of local water suppliers intent on protecting their turf. These groups, often referred to as the “water mafia,” are allegedly connected to service providers contracted by the OR Tambo District Municipality.

Rather than be intimidated, Sooliman called them out. “We will take you on wherever you are. Gift of the Givers is not afraid of anyone. We have the support of the government, SAPS, SANDF, and above all, the people.”

Government Responds Swiftly

Police Minister Senzo Mchunu reacted strongly, confirming that the police had acted to protect Gift of the Givers and condemned any efforts to hinder relief work.

“The police will not tolerate any attempt to intimidate or obstruct those who are working tirelessly to save lives and bring relief to our people,” Mchunu stated.

He also confirmed reports of opportunistic theft from the homes of those who lost their lives in the floods, describing the actions as “despicable” and promising law enforcement would remain deployed to protect grieving families and preserve their dignity.

Mchunu was clear: attacks on humanitarian workers are an attack on Ubuntu itself—the very heart of South African communal values.

Community and Police Stand Together

Thanks to the quick response from SAPS, Gift of the Givers now has a police escort when transporting supplies. Convoys flanked by patrol vehicles have helped stabilise the situation, but the group is still calling on the public for help identifying the perpetrators.

“We need the community of Mthatha to help us find that Fortuner,” said Sooliman. “The person in that car must be arrested.”

A Bigger Issue: Who Controls the Water?

The situation exposes a deeper problem. In many under-resourced towns, access to clean water is controlled by private operators, some of whom reportedly engage in price gouging, sabotage, or intimidation to protect their contracts or market share.

The term “water mafia” is not hyperbole. In some areas, these syndicates have allegedly blocked or destroyed public water infrastructure to force reliance on their services.

What unfolded in Mthatha suggests that when charitable groups offer free alternatives, these networks feel threatened and sometimes retaliate.

The Spirit of Ubuntu Will Not Be Silenced

Even amid tragedy, South Africans are showing resilience. Gift of the Givers has continued its work across the region, with support from communities and local officials, even as criminals try to exploit the crisis.

“This is about humanity, not profit,” said Dr Sooliman. “We are here for the people. We will not back down.”

As the rains subside and communities begin to rebuild, the fight for clean water and the right to help without fear, is far from over. But one thing is certain: those who profit from pain are on notice, and Ubuntu remains stronger than intimidation.

{Source: IOL}

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