SUBSTANTIAL progress has been made on the Lower uMkhomazi Water Scheme project, according to Water and Sanitation Minister, Pemmy Majodina. The Minister, along with Deputy Minister Sello Seitlholo, and uMngeni-uThukela Water Board members conducted an on-site progress review of the bulk water project on 07 November 2024.
The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) says the project is valued at over R20 billion and represents a pivotal intervention in ensuring water security for the region.
Inspecting the Goodenough Abstraction Site, which is more than 60% complete, Majodina endorsed the progress made thus far in implementing the project.
“This progress is a testament to the commitment and expertise of the appointed contractors and our entity, uMngeni-uThukela Water. The project is set to tackle longstanding water challenges for South Coast residents and secure reliable water resources for years to come,” she said.
According to the DWS, “This large-scale project, which was previously hindered by delays, has gained renewed momentum as a result of the DWS’s involvement and determination.”
Majodina and Seitlholo also conducted an oversight inspection of a construction site of the Ngwadini off-channel storage dam which is expected to be completed by December 2027.
The bulk water scheme is crucial to KwaZulu-Natal’s water resilience and includes two phases. Phase 1 will focus on raw water components, including the Ngwadini and Goodenough Systems, while Phase 2 will deliver potable water infrastructure. This infrastructure will feature a 100 Ml/day water treatment facility, gravity pipelines, expanded reservoir capacity, and an administration Building.
Majodina said that the overall implementation of the project signifies transformative progress toward addressing water shortages that have impacted the region since 2016. Upon completion, the uMngeni Water Supply System will increase its annual freshwater capacity from 394 million to 608 million cubic meters, securing sustainable water resources for more than 5 million people across six districts, including eThekwini, Msunduzi, uMgungundlovu, Ugu, Ilembe, and Harry Gwala.
The project has helped to create temporary employment opportunities for over 380 locals and more than 100 small, medium, and micro enterprises have participated in the project to date, the DWS said.
