ESWATINI: Bore­hole water ‘caus­ing tooth decay’ in Mz­i­m­vubu

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Bore­hole water ‘caus­ing tooth decay’ in Mz­i­m­vubu

Eswatini Observer - July 14, 2026

RESIDENTS of Mzimvubu have been forced to rely on a borehole whose water has left children with discoloured and decaying teeth, prompting desperate calls for government to intervene.

According to Mzimvubu Bucopho Bafanababodvwa Sithole, families had endured the problem for about 10 years, with children bearing the greatest burden.

He said the condition had become so severe that some learners were bullied at school because of the condition of their teeth.

Sithole explained that around 38 households depend on the borehole as their primary source of drinking water, leaving residents with little choice despite concerns over its quality.

"The children are suffering. Their teeth change colour and eventually begin to rot. Some are laughed at by other children at school because of how their teeth look," he said.

He added that the community now feels they would rather drink untreated river water than continue consuming water from the borehole, saying they had lost confidence in its safety.

"We need change. We just want clean, safe water like everyone else," he said.

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy has acknowledged the problem, confirming that excessive fluoride levels were detected in the borehole water. Director of Water Affairs Makhosini Khoza said the ministry was aware that high fluoride concentrations affected a number of communities across the country and was working to address the challenge.

"We are seeing this problem in many parts of the country. As a ministry, we are doing everything possible to ensure people have access to clean and safe drinking water," Khoza said.

He explained that water quality tests carried out on the Mzimvubu borehole confirmed fluoride levels that exceeded recommended limits. (Pic: Brian Mabuza)

"There is too much fluoride in the borehole water. High fluoride levels can change the colour of people's teeth and, over time, contribute to tooth decay and other dental problems," he said.

Khoza said the ministry was working closely with the rural water supply branch to identify a safer and more sustainable source of water for the affected community.

According to Khoza, the search for an alternative supply forms part of broader efforts to improve access to safe drinking water in rural communities where naturally occurring minerals continue to affect groundwater quality.

While no timeline has been provided for the new water source, Sithole said they hope government intervention would finally bring an end to years of living with unsafe water.

SOURCE:
https://www.pressreader.com/eswatini/es ... 2686243209