Two projects are set to upgrade infrastructure in Alexandra, while creating opportunities for local residents and small businesses.

The first initiative is a R70m plan to replace the ageing 600mm diameter, bulk steel water pipeline stretching from Linbro Park reservoir into parts of Ward 105 and Ward 32. Importantly, the project has been designed with community empowerment in mind. Around 30% of the total value of the project has been earmarked for small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs), covering site clearance, excavation, recovery of the existing pipeline, fencing, paving, security, reinstatements, and pipe jacking.

Read more: City officials demolish an illegal structure encroaching on public infrastructure

Pipe jacking alone accounts for R9m, requiring advanced machinery and expertise. If the necessary skills are not found within Ward 105, contractors from Alexandra will be considered before looking elsewhere.

Between six and ten local SMMEs are expected to be appointed, with at least six to ten workers engaged at the start of the contract. More opportunities will be communicated as the project progresses.

To ensure transparency, Ward 105 councillor Tefo Raphadu said a community liaison officer (CLO) will be appointed, to serve as the bridge between residents and the project team. Raphadu stressed that every effort would be made to prioritise local contractors, and to ensure local labourers are employed and upskilled.

Alongside the pipeline replacement, Raphadu confirmed that a repairs and maintenance programme, valued at just under R700 000, will soon be rolled out at Kwabhekilanga Sports Ground. The facility, heavily used by the community and athletes, will undergo waterproofing, electrical work, painting, plumbing, and paving. For this programme, two opportunities have already been earmarked for local SMMEs, in paving and painting, with ward-based labourers to be employed. Raphadu stressed that every effort would be made to prioritise local contractors. “This is the first step in introducing the project. Before all of these things can happen, there must be an SMMEs briefing. So, you are all going to be called if you are interested, but, as mentioned, we cannot start without the community liaison officer.”

Also read: Infrastructure challenges make Alexandra schools almost unusable

He added that, unlike the larger pipeline project, the sports ground upgrade will not have a dedicated CLO due to its smaller scale. However, residents have raised concerns about oversight, suggesting that some form of community monitoring should still be in place.

Together, the pipeline replacement and sports ground facelift represent a dual investment in Alexandra’s future, strengthening essential services, while uplifting local businesses and residents through employment and skills development.

Raphadu assured residents that these projects are only the beginning of broader upgrades, with further engagements and SMME briefings to follow.

Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration!