Pretoria: Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina has officially handed over the Lubisi Water Treatment Works in the Chris Hani District Municipality, located in the Eastern Cape. The project aims to deliver sustainable and reliable water services to underserved communities within the Intsika Yethu, Sakhisizwe, and Emalahleni Local Municipalities.

According to South African Government News Agency, the project was implemented under the department’s Regional Bulk Infrastructure Grant (RBIG) and is set to benefit 96 communities, serving an estimated population of 94,307. During the handover ceremony, Majodina emphasized the importance of maintaining water infrastructure, urging municipalities to take responsibility and address issues such as illegal water connections and vandalism.

The Minister stressed the civic duty of community members to report any vandalism or theft concerning water infrastructure, reminding them of their role in protecting these essential services. She also highlighted the negative impact of such activities on water provision, urging the public to refrain from purchasing stolen goods and, instead, to act as custodians of their resources.

Additionally, Majodina called upon department officials to collaborate with farmers to monitor and regulate water usage effectively. She reassured everyone that the Ministry, in partnership with various stakeholders, would continue to work towards expanding access to water services nationwide, aligning with commitments made by the President in the recent State of the Nation Address.