DWS interventions: Vaal River, Giyani, uMkhanyakude, Matjhabeng, Maluti-a-Phofung, uThukela, Lekwa, Emfuleni, Hamanskraal, North West, with Ministry

Video ANNEXURES - Interventions and support to municipalities.zip   The Portfolio Committee on Water and Sanitation was briefed by the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) on interventions undertaken in terms of Section 63 of the Water Services Act covering construction projects including the Vaal River System, Giyani, uMkhanyakude, Matjhabeng, Maluti-a-Phofung, uThukela and Lekwa. DWS reported progress on infrastructure rehabilitation and water and sanitation service delivery, while highlighting challenges with municipal capacity, governance, contractor performance, vandalism, electricity constraints, delays and inadequate operations and maintenance. Members expressed concern that communities continued to experience severe water shortages, sewage spillages and poor sanitation despite significant government expenditure. They called for focus on outcomes rather than inputs – if water was coming out of taps rather than how many billions had been spent. They questioned the sustainability of boreholes and infrastructure after project completion. Members raised concerns about the delayed Giyani project, the Taung-to-Vryburg pipeline, Matjhabeng sewer spillages, Emfuleni and if Section 63 should be invoked in Matlosana. They called for stronger intergovernmental coordination, improved communication with communities and greater accountability. The Minister and Deputy Ministers acknowledged the concerns and stressed that sustainable service delivery required stronger municipal capacity, effective operations and maintenance, infrastructure protection and a whole-of-government approach. DWS explained that municipalities remained responsible for operating and maintaining municipal infrastructure, while discussions with National Treasury were continuing on mechanisms to address maintenance challenges. Rand Water outlined its decentralised water supply model, incorporating equipped boreholes, purification, community training and solar power. The Hammanskraal packaged treatment plant was operational and supplying 50 megalitres per day, although wider project optimisation remained outstanding. The Vaal Central Water Utility special purpose vehicle was progressing, with outstanding agreements expected to be finalised before becoming operational by December 2026 or January 2027. DWS undertook to provide additional project documentation and conduct a technical assessment of the Taung-to-Vryburg situation.