DWS Accelerates Major Projects to Improve Water Security

Spokesperson Wisani Mavasa provided an update on progress in overcoming delays and advancing critical water infrastructure projects.

The Ministry and Department of Water and Sanitation have pledged to expedite the implementation of water projects and enhance water and sanitation services across South Africa. Spokesperson Wisani Mavasa provided an update on progress in overcoming delays and advancing critical water infrastructure projects.

The government is focusing on investing in national water resource infrastructure to ensure water security, which includes promoting water conservation and improving municipal services. Mavasa acknowledged past delays but emphasized significant strides in resolving these issues.

Currently, 14 major national water projects valued at over R100 billion are at various stages of implementation. Key initiatives include the Lesotho Highlands Water Project Phase Two, the uMkhomazi Water Project, and the Hazelmere Dam wall raising in KwaZulu-Natal, among others.

The National Water Resource Infrastructure Agency Bill, recently passed by Parliament, will establish an agency with enhanced financial capabilities to support these projects.

Water Supply Disruptions

Mavasa reported increased water supply disruptions in Gauteng and eThekwini due to population growth, which had been anticipated. Delays in projects such as the Polihali Dam and uMkhomazi Water Project have contributed to these issues. However, the uMkhomazi project's affordability concerns have been resolved, and construction is underway.

Project Updates

Ntabelanga Dam: Planned for additional domestic and irrigation water in the Eastern Cape, its construction was delayed due to budget issues. The project was reconfigured to reduce costs from R18 billion to R8 billion, with construction set to start by October 2024.

Clanwilliam Dam: The project to raise the dam wall, started in 2013, faced budget constraints but is now fully funded and major construction is progressing.

Loskop Regional Bulk Water Supply: Construction began in 2022 after delays due to funding and planning issues.

Giyani Water Supply Project: Accelerated recently, it has begun delivering water to some villages, with plans to extend services further by August and within the next two years.

Legislative and Administrative Improvements

The Water Services Amendment Bill will be submitted to Cabinet for approval, aimed at addressing municipal performance issues highlighted in recent reports. Additionally, the department has improved its performance in processing water use licenses, with 70% of applications now processed within 90 days, up from 35%.

The department remains committed to meeting the President's 2020 State of the Nation Address target of processing all water use applications within 90 days during this financial year.