[1] The name "Metsimotlhabe" means "water sand river".

[3] Surface drainage in the sandveld surrounding the Metsimotlhabe is limited to pans and dry valleys, which rarely carry surface water.

[1] Sand extraction from the riverbed has caused problems, since this lowers the water table and causes the surrounding vegetation to die.

[4] This is a significant economic activity in the District.

[5] In June 2012 a spokesperson for the Ministry of Minerals, Energy and Water Resources pointed out that demand was high due to the boom in housing caused by the growing affluence of the country.