The North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT) has reiterated its commitment to protecting consumers and holding businesses accountable, following a successful intervention by the Consumer Affairs Office and Consumer Affairs Court in a dispute involving a Mahikeng resident and a drilling company.
The case, concluded during World Consumer Rights Day month, highlights the decisive role of the Consumer Affairs Court in enforcing compliance and ensuring that consumers are not exploited.
Ms. Josephine Seitlhamo of Lokaleng Village entered into an agreement with Francois Drilling (Pty) Ltd in November 2023 for the drilling of a 50-metre borehole, including installation of all necessary equipment. She paid R27,800 for the service.
However, the company failed to meet its contractual obligations. The borehole was not drilled to the agreed depth, and despite claims that the work had been completed, no water was found. The consumer was subsequently requested to incur additional costs amounting to R11,000 for casings, and a further R4,500 for a cylinder pump, without any resolution to the problem.
An independent assessment later revealed that the borehole measured only 34 metres and had no water, contradicting the service provider’s claims and pointing to conduct that falls short of acceptable business standards.
After unsuccessful attempts to resolve the matter directly with the supplier, Ms. Seitlhamo lodged a complaint with the Consumer Affairs Office. Due to lack of cooperation from the company, the matter was escalated to the Consumer Affairs Court.
In February 2026, the Court facilitated a settlement agreement compelling Francois Drilling (Pty) Ltd to drill a new borehole and install all required equipment at no additional cost to the consumer. The order was complied with, and by 5 March 2026, Ms. Seitlhamo confirmed that the new borehole is fully functional and yielding sufficient water.
The case underscores the enforcement of the Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2008, which prohibits misleading, unfair, and deceptive conduct by suppliers.
Ms. Seitlhamo suffered financial loss and prolonged inconvenience, having spent approximately R38,800 and relying on water tankers for an extended period due to the supplier’s failure to deliver on agreed services.
Speaking on the outcome, Director for Consumer Protection, Seile Letsogo, emphasised the Department’s firm stance against non-compliant businesses:
“This case demonstrates that the Consumer Affairs Court is an effective platform for redress and enforcement. We urge businesses to comply with the law and treat consumers fairly. Where there is evidence of prohibited conduct, we will not hesitate to act decisively to protect consumers and ensure that justice is served.”
The department has issued a stern warning to businesses operating within the province: non-compliance with consumer protection legislation and unethical business practices will not be tolerated. The Department will continue to pursue enforcement measures, including administrative penalties, against those who violate consumer rights.
Consumers are encouraged to report unfair treatment and seek assistance from the Consumer Affairs Office, which remains committed to ensuring accessible, efficient, and fair redress for all.
Issued by the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism
For inquiries, contact:
Thomas Matlapeng
083 687 3649
OR
Mr. Jeremiah Matebesi
072 333 0325
Email: JeremiahMatebesi@nwpg.gov.za
Twitter: @nwpg_dedect / Facebook: @nwdedect