A Triumph for Water and Sanitation: City Achieves 95% Capital Spend on Infrastructure and Development

The City of Cape Town’s Water and Sanitation Directorate has achieved an incredible feat, having spent 95% of its R2.385 billion capital budget in the 2022/23 financial year. This impressive achievement highlights the City’s dedication to investing in infrastructure and ensuring access to high-quality drinking water and dignified sanitation, particularly for those living in informal settlements.

The Largest Allocation of Capital Expenditure within the City

In the past financial year, the Water and Sanitation staff managed the largest allocation of capital expenditure within the City, which is a testament to their hard work and commitment. Councillor Zahid Badroodien, the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Water and Sanitation, commended their efforts and highlighted the significant progress made in enhancing wastewater treatment capacity. The Directorate allocated a substantial R248 million for upgrades at Zandvliet Wastewater Treatment Works (WWTW), while R129 million went towards the long-awaited extension of Potsdam WWTW.

Other Projects Contributing to the Commendable Expenditure

Several other projects contributed to the commendable expenditure, including:

• R221 million for the Cape Flats Aquifer Recharge
• R159 million for the replacement and upgrades of the sewer pipe network
• R104 million for the improvement of sewer pump stations
• R118 million for the Cape Flats sewer pipeline rehabilitation
• R117 million for the upgrade of the water pipe network

To address the issue of load-shedding, the Directorate spearheaded the installation of Uninterrupted Power Supply Systems (UPS) at pump stations and coupled this with security upgrades to curb vandalism.

Looking Ahead

The City of Cape Town faces new challenges as the capital budget doubles to R4.3 billion, aimed at fulfilling the objectives outlined in the City’s Water Strategy. An impressive R604 million has been earmarked for the New Water Programme, which will focus on the Cape Flats, Atlantis, and Table Mountain Group aquifers, as well as the Faure New Water plant.

In addition, R38 million has been allocated for the provision of new taps and toilets in informal settlements, signaling the City’s continued commitment to improving the lives of its most vulnerable residents. The initiative to repair leaks in indigent households will also continue, building on the positive impact already seen in the 534 households that have benefited from the program thus far.

A Testament to the Power of Collaboration and Dedication

The City’s Water and Sanitation Directorate’s remarkable achievement in capital expenditure is a testament to the power of collaboration and dedication in addressing the pressing needs of citizens. As the budget and scope of projects increase, the Directorate will need to harness its past successes and innovative spirit to continue delivering essential services and infrastructure, ensuring a brighter and more sustainable future for all residents.