Minister promises water by June after 14-year wait for Giyani villagers
The Giyani Water Project has been a source of controversy for years with allegations of corruption, while residents in the 55 villages it was meant to serve continue to suffer the dire consequences of not having water.
LIMPOPO – The Minister of Water and Sanitation, Senzo Mchunu expressed satisfaction with the progress made to establish water supply and extend yard connection services to 55 villages in Giyani, when he visited the area last Monday.
The Giyani Water Project was first initiated 14 years ago in former president Jacob Zuma’s tenure, and was initially budgeted for at R90m but saw severe corruption and maladministration for which no person thus far has been held accountable, resulting in a figure of more than R3b.
The project has been a source of controversy for years with allegations of corruption, while residents in the 55 villages it was meant to serve continue to suffer the dire consequences of not having water.
According to Mchunu, 24 of the 55 villages currently have taps installed in their yards, with some already receiving water.
He visited several villages in Giyani to inspect the progress on phase one of the reticulation component of the project and said that in some villages, the connection of the bulk pipeline to local reservoirs, including the refurbishments of existing reservoirs and installation of elevated steel tanks, is already underway.
Despite the years of delays, Mchunu acknowledged the plans implemented by the Mopani District Municipality which led to unblocking the project.
“I am satisfied with the work currently underway, although we are behind schedule due to the history of this project. However, the level of commitment demonstrated by the contractors has showed that we are making progress in getting water to the people’s households.”
Nchunu says all 24 villages which form part of phase one are expected to have running water from their taps by the end of June this year.
“This indeed signals in a new era of ensuring that households in rural and urban areas have access to clean, fresh water in their homes. We are determined to provide equal, quality service to all the residents of the country,” Mchunu said.
Tiyisela Khumbuzo, a resident, however expressed his dismay at what he referred to as “yet another minister” who visits the area.
“We don’t want the ministers to come and campaign here because they aim to get votes, and not to help us. They can come after the election, as we are tired of their empty promises,” she said.
