Pioneering Progress: Minister Senzo Mchunu Applauds South Africa’s Cutting-edge Water Projects

South Africa’s Minister of Water and Sanitation, Senzo Mchunu, has praised two revolutionary water projects in Limpopo that have the potential to serve as trailblazers for other municipalities. The Masodi Waste Water Treatment Works project and the Olifantspoort Bulk Water Scheme showcase the impact of public-private partnerships on the socio-economic development of local communities.

Masodi Waste Water Treatment Works Project

The Masodi Waste Water Treatment Works project, situated in Mokopane within the Mogalakwena Local Municipality, is currently at 92% completion and is set to be commissioned by the end of the year. The project exemplifies the effective management of waste water and effluent. It is a testament to the power of collaboration with private partners, which strengthens service delivery systems and bolsters socio-economic progress.

The project has been fully funded and implemented by private partner Ivanplats Proprietary Limited Mine, whose efficient work has ensured that the project is nearing completion before the scheduled timeframes. Once upgraded, the plant will produce 10 megalitres of water per day, improving sanitation provision in Mokopane and its surrounding areas. Local industries will also have access to grey water, enabling them to reuse treated effluent from the plant.

Initially started by the municipality in 2015, the biological nutrient removal (BNR) plant experienced delays until 2021. Minister Mchunu’s intervention was pivotal in resuming the project, which now includes a booster pump station and pipelines connecting the new plant to the existing sewer system. Following a Memorandum of Agreement between the municipality and Ivanplats, the partnership will also replace asbestos sewer pipelines that are currently inefficient and prone to spillages.

Olifantspoort Bulk Water Scheme

The Olifantspoort Bulk Water Scheme, located near Lebowakgomo in the Capricorn District Municipality, is set to undergo a series of refurbishments and upgrades. Once completed, the project will increase its capacity from 60 to 280 megalitres per day, ultimately meeting current and future potable water demands in the region.

The Olifantspoort Water Treatment Works is an integral part of the Olifants and Ebenezer Water supply Schemes, providing essential drinking water for Polokwane in the Capricorn District. The Minister expressed satisfaction with the planning, timeframes, and funding of the project, which is being implemented by Lepelle Northern Water.

The Olifants Management Model (OMM) Programme

The Minister also met with the Lebalelo Water User Association to assess the progress of the Olifants Management Model (OMM) Programme. This 50/50 partnership project between the Department of Water and Sanitation and the Association involves the development of water resource infrastructure, including the De Hoop and Flag Boshielo Dams along the Steelpoort River and a bulk distribution system. These initiatives will benefit the Sekhukhune District and Mogalakwena Local Municipality.

Transforming Lives and Fostering Socio-Economic Growth

These groundbreaking projects in Limpopo demonstrate the transformative power of public-private partnerships in fostering socio-economic growth and improving the daily lives of South Africans. As these initiatives continue to materialize, they will undoubtedly inspire other municipalities to embark on similar endeavors, advancing the nation’s progress in water management and sustainability. Minister Mchunu’s support and intervention have ensured the successful completion of these pioneering projects, setting an example for other municipalities to follow.