During an oversight visit by Northern Cape premier Dr Zamani Saul to the Riverton water treatment plants on Tuesday (23/6) he said water leakages in the system have been significantly reduced since the programme began. Municipal leaders showcased progress on the budget facility for infrastructure projects funded by the National Treasury.

The R2.5bn BFI grant, which was approved by the National Treasury just over two years ago, represents the largest water infrastructure investment in the Northern Cape’s history and is aimed at improving water security for Kimberley and surrounding communities.

Municipal manager Thapelo Matlala said the programme is being implemented in three phases: emergency, medium-term, and long-term interventions aimed at repairing and upgrading ageing bulk water infrastructure across the municipality.

“We are pleased to report that 98% of the emergency phase of the BFI water programme has been completed, marking a significant milestone in the refurbishment and upgrading of Sol Plaatje’s water infrastructure,” said Matlala.

“The emergency phase focused on critical interventions, including leak repairs, refurbishment of the old water treatment plant, and improvements to Riverton’s electricity capacity. These upgrades have already helped reduce water interruptions and nightly shutdowns.

“Residents can expect improved water quality and a more reliable water supply as the project progresses. Our goal is to ensure long-term water security while modernising infrastructure that has served the municipality for decades.”

The oversight visit allowed provincial and municipal leadership to assess work being undertaken at both the old and new purification plants.

Sol Plaatje executive mayor Cllr Martha Bartlett said residents are already seeing the benefits of this project. “Water interruptions have decreased significantly, pipe bursts are far less frequent, and we are moving away from the unplanned shutdowns that frustrated communities for many years."

“We are very pleased with the progress made over the past two years. What we saw during today’s oversight visit gives us confidence that this project is on the right track and could be completed sooner than the original seven-year timeframe.”

This project is about more than infrastructure; it is about providing residents with reliable access to clean water and improving the quality of life for communities across the Sol Plaatje municipality, she said.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame sm

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