Major water boost for Polokwane
Olifantspoort/Ebenezer scheme to boost supply and support economic growth.
The upgrade of the Olifantspoort/Ebenezer water scheme is expected to deliver 65 megalitres of water per day to communities this year, bringing relief to residents affected by persistent water shortages in Polokwane.
The project, which forms part of the Olifants Management Model programme, includes the construction of bulk raw water infrastructure, water treatment works, and reticulation networks to supply communities and industrial users.
Once completed, the initiative is expected to provide potable water to about 390 000 people in areas including the Sekhukhune and Mopani District Municipalities, while also supporting economic growth and creating more than 42 000 jobs.
This emerged during a media briefing held in Polokwane at the beginning of March, addressed by Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation David Mahlobo and Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba.
The briefing focused on interventions aimed at addressing the severe and recurring water shortages experienced by the city in recent years.
Mahlobo said stronger co-operation between all spheres of government was critical to accelerate solutions, strengthen accountability, and improve water service delivery.
He added that the interventions in Polokwane align with national efforts to address water challenges through the National Water Crisis Committee, which will be chaired by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
Mahlobo reaffirmed the department’s commitment to working closely with provincial and municipal authorities to accelerate infrastructure upgrades, strengthen operational co-ordination, and ensure reliable and sustainable water access for communities.
Ramathuba said the solutions being implemented in Polokwane could serve as a model for other municipalities in Limpopo facing similar water challenges.
The government has committed to continue working with stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the turnaround strategy and secure long-term water sustainability for Polokwane and the province.
