R500m Mutale water project to ease shortages
A R500m bulk water upgrade aims to bring clean tap water to ward 3 communities, as Vhembe District monitors progress.
LIMPOPO – Thirsty communities in ward three of the Mutale area in the Thulamela Municipality may soon have clean water flowing from their taps, thanks to the Mutale Raw and Potable Bulk Water System Upgrade, a major infrastructure project by the Vhembe District Municipality (VDM).
This mega project comes with a total budget exceeding R500m, covering both construction and professional costs.
On July 16, Mayor Freda Nkondo visited the project site to assess progress, accompanied by councillors and local community leaders. The visit formed part of VDM’s efforts to monitor and conduct fact-finding missions on funded water services projects.
According to Nkondo, the project is funded through the Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG) and aims to alleviate water shortages in several areas, including Tshandama, Lukau, Tshishivhe and the Tshilamba township.
She explained that the current water source – the weir – has faced challenges in the past, prompting the district to intervene.
“The raw water pump station is operating below capacity, with only one working pump and no standby unit,” Nkondo said. “The project scope includes rehabilitation of the weir, refurbishment of the raw water pumping system, and the construction of a new raw water dam.”
Speaking to contractors and engineers at the site, Nkondo expressed her frustration with delayed timelines.
“Enough is enough. We’ve heard too many times that the project is 98% complete, yet progress stalls. We can’t sit in offices assuming things are moving forward. Monitoring is essential. Water is life, and access to clean water is a basic right. Our people cannot be denied that,” she said.
Despite past delays, the mayor expressed optimism, saying that the project – which started in April – is now moving steadily. The weir construction and pumping system refurbishment is currently at 16% completion, while demolition and refurbishment of facilities, including staff accommodation, has reached 88%.
Project supervisor Ntshuxeko Mabasa of Khomanani Construction JV, acknowledged the mayor’s concerns and said the team is committed to accelerating the work, despite disruptions caused by weather conditions.
Local traditional leader representative Mmboswobeni Tshikhwalivha welcomed the progress. He expressed joy that communities that previously faced severe water shortages may soon access clean tap water. However, he also urged contractors to remain committed and see the project through to the end, ensuring rural communities are not left behind.
