March 20, 2003

THE first ever fountain in Soweto was unveiled at a mega launch at Thokoza Park in Rockville on Wednesday.

The occasion for the launch of the fountain was a rare moment, especially as it got City of Johannesburg Mayor Amos Masondo to get down to the tunes of Yvonne Chaka-Chaka, who was a guest artist at the event.

It was also a moment of celebration for Rand Water, the regional water and sanitation service provider for the whole of Gauteng, from which Johannesburg Water gets its already-packaged water. Rand Water is currently celebrating 100 years of world-class water supply to the citizens of South Africa.

Residents are happy with having a fountain in the area

Erected at the historic Moroka Dam site at Thokoza Park, the R850 000 fountain was constructed through a partnership between Rand Water, City Parks and the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry. The launch coincided with the National Water Week of 17 to 23 March 2003.

Luther Williamson, managing director of City Parks, said the ultimate goal was to bring people back into parks and "revitalise the lost energy our open spaces once provided".

Williamson added that water was a national resource was central to business processes in the development of public open spaces.

Local councillor Mandla Ndumo said the community had already displayed a great sense of pride and ownership of Thokoza Park, "something that had already resulted in a litter-free zone in the area".

The mayor said he was proud of developments at Moroka Dam and Thokoza Park as they were a symbol of the City of Johannesburg's commitment to the sustainable use of its wetlands.

"The rehabilitation of the dam is part of the framework of catchments management strategy of the City. It encompasses improving the water quality, controlled management of storm water and enhancement of the recreational opportunities along our rivers."

"Water is life!" the mayor proclaimed as he pressed the button for water to gush from the fountain.