Marking a major milestone in City of Mbombela’s (CoM)efforts to strengthen climate resilience and reduce flood risks in vulnerable communities, the municipality has introduced intervention projects under the Hybrid Flood Alleviation Programme.

The programme was handed over at the Capital Hotel Mbombela on April 23.

The programme, funded by the C40 Cities Finance Facility and implemented with technical support from GIZ (a German development co-operation), provides the city with a comprehensive and evidence-based roadmap to address increasing flood risks in the Msogwaba and Tekwane North catchment areas.

The Hybrid Flood Alleviation Programme adopts an innovative approach that combines traditional storm-water infrastructure with nature-based solutions, including wetland rehabilitation, river restoration, and sustainable urban drainage systems.

This integrated model is designed to deliver long-term flood risk reduction, while enhancing environmental sustainability and improving the quality of life for residents.

The four interventions are the Msogwaba Wetland Rehabilitation, Newscom Open Space Rehabilitation, Upper Rietbokloop Weir and Wetland, and Tekwane Dam.

ALSO READ: City of Mbombela launches flood and storm water project

The Hybrid Flood Alleviation Programme was approved by the city’s executive council in 2018 and was successfully launched in 2023. Since then, the project members have embarked on a series of consultations and technical studies, including hydroclimatic assessments, climate risk and vulnerability analyses, engineering designs, and a cost-benefit analysis. These studies confirm the economic viability and long-term benefits of the proposed interventions.

All the interventions are expected to cost between R600m and R800m with the Newscom Open Space Rehabilitation earmarked as a priority.
The interventions are already included in the City’s Integrated Development Plan and the Medium-Term Revenue and Expenditure Framework, which include consultations with communities so as to not illegally invade these areas.

Speaking at the event, the CoM executive mayor, Sibongile Makushe-Mazibuko, highlighted the importance of the programme in safeguarding communities and strengthening the municipality’s response to climate change.

“This programme represents a critical investment in the future of our city. It enables us to proactively address flood risks while protecting our communities, infrastructure and natural environment,” she said.

ALSO READ: Tekwane South ravaged by floods

“We are now focused on ensuring that the outcomes of this programme translate into tangible projects on the ground. The City will work to integrate these interventions while actively pursuing funding and partnerships to support implementation,” Makushe-Mazibuko said.

She said this milestone positions the City of Mbombela as a leading municipality in advancing innovative and sustainable approaches to climate adaptation and urban resilience.