Minister Mchunu to Assess Water and Waste Systems in Limpopo

Minister of Water and Sanitation, Senzo Mchunu, is set to visit Limpopo from 12 to 13 July 2023 to assess the state of water and waste water systems in four district municipalities. This move is part of the Department of Water and Sanitation’s ongoing efforts to improve water security and waste water management in the region.

Partnerships for Water and Waste Management

The visit aims to strengthen intergovernmental relations and leverage public-private partnerships to enhance the quality of water and waste management. Deputy Ministers David Mahlobo and Judith Tshabalala will accompany Mchunu, along with representatives from Lepelle Northern Water, the private sector, mining industry, provincial government, and affected municipalities.

Site Visits and Project Updates

The itinerary includes site visits to the Masodi Waste Water Treatment Works in Mogalakwena Local Municipality and the anticipated Olifantspoort Project site, which spans three of Limpopo’s five district municipalities. During the visit, Mchunu will receive updates on the construction of the 10 megalitres a day (ml/d) Masodi Wastewater Treatment plant in Mokopane, a multi-year public-private partnership project between Mogalakwena Municipality and Ivanplats Proprietary Limited Mine.

The Olifants Management Model

Mchunu will also discuss the Olifants Management Model (OMM) with stakeholders. This is a 50/50 partnership between the DWS and the Lebalelo Water User Association for the Olifants River Water Resources Development Project. The project aims to construct additional water resource infrastructure, including the De Hoop Dam on the Steelpoort River and a bulk distribution system to benefit Sekhukhune District and Mogalakwena Local Municipality.

Upgrading Water Treatment Works

On the second day of his visit, Mchunu will tour the Olifantspoort Water Treatment Works, set to undergo a refurbishment and upgrade from 60 to 120 ml/d to enhance its performance, capacity, and ability to meet current and future potable water demands. The plant is part of the Olifants/Ebenezer Water Supply Schemes and serves as a critical drinking water source for Polokwane in the Capricorn District.

Commitment to Water Security

This visit demonstrates the South African government’s commitment to addressing ongoing water challenges and improving water security. Collaboration between public and private sectors, as well as intergovernmental relations, will play a key role in ensuring that communities across Limpopo have access to clean and safe water resources.