Report of the Portfolio
Committee on Water Affairs and Forestry, dated 15 November 2006:
PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON WATER AFFAIRS AND FORESTRY
OVERSIGHT VISIT TO THE LIMPOPO AND NORTH WEST PROVINCES
30 JULY– 4 AUGUST 2006
1. INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND
Attention to water, sanitation and forestry policies in South Africa has turned
to implementation. The new policies and
associated legislation are not only about ensuring adequate quality and
quantity of water for human need; they are also about protecting the resources
available for current and future use.
Due to the extent and multiplicity of the management functions
associated with water quality management, it is no longer considered to be the
sole obligation of a single authority, but is now increasingly the
responsibility of all levels of the community, including industry, local
government as well as individual water users.
The Committee, as mandated by the Constitution and Rules of Parliament,
undertook oversight visits to the Limpopo and North West Provinces. This was to gauge the manner in which the
responsibility of water, sanitation and forestry issues are being addressed by
different levels of the community, including industry, local government, as well
as individual water users.
1.1. Objectives
To this end, the objectives of the oversight visit were to:
Identify municipalities falling within Project Consolidate, and monitor and
evaluate the challenges and solutions that are currently being formulated to
ensure the addressing of water, sanitation and forestry policies.
Examine the manner in which Catchment Management Agencies (CMAs), tasked with
the management of water resources at the scale of Water Management Areas are
working toward the sustainability of both the resource base, as well as water
delivery mechanisms.
Investigate the way in which CMAs are informed by local-level representation
through Catchment For and/or Committees, water User Associations, Water
Services Authorities and Water Service Providers.
Examine the way in which local governance structures, in the form of district
and local municipalities participate in the water management and supply side as
Water Service Authorities and Water Service Providers.
Focus on the human and financial resources set aside for water quality
protection, enforcement, monitoring and oversight.
Obtain detailed information and first-hand insights into the Working for Water
Programmes.
Focusing on the Kruger National Park’s to address issues of water conservation
projects, biodiversity and the protection of ecosystems, in light of other
overriding priorities.
Evaluating management effectiveness, in areas of veld and fire control.
Job creation in the water and forestry sectors.
The targets to be met on water, sanitation and bucket eradication.
The impact of the mining sector on the state of rivers in these two provinces.
Whilst all the above objectives could not be undertaken simultaneously, the
issues were divided into different foci for different areas within respective
provinces.
The Committee undertook a study tour to the two provinces during the period of
30 July – 4 August 2006. The Committee members split into two multiparty
delegations that visited the two provinces.
1.2 Limpopo Province
delegation
Ms C C September, (Leader of the Delegation) (ANC), Ms T E Lishivha (ANC),
Mr J D Arendse (ANC), Mr K Moonsamy (ANC), Ms M L Kompe-Ngwenya (ANC), Mr M W
Sibuyana (IFP).
1.3 Officials from the
Limpopo Province
Mr. A Matukane – Chief Director Department of Water Affairs and Forestry, Mr. S
L Rampedi – Head of Department: Dpt. of Local Government and Housing, Mr. Papo
Maloka – CEO (SALGA), Mr. Willie Modisha – Chairperson Lepelle Northern Water,
Mr. Collins Chabane – MEC: Department of Economic Development, Environment and
Tourism, CLLR. Martha Maphaga – Mayor Greater Marble, CLLR. Dickson Masemola –
Executive Mayor Greater Sekhukhune, Mr. Ockie Van Den Berg – DWAF, Mr. T
Nkadimeng – Municipal Manger: Sekhukhune, CLLR. Sam Mamekoa – Mayor: Greater
Tubatse Municipality, CLLR. Thabita Mohlala – Speaker of Mopani District, CLLR.
Gloria Valoyi – Mayor of Ba-Phalaborwa Local Municipality, Dr Thomas
Gyedu-Ababio – Manager: Kruger National Park, Mr. Tim Maake – Manager: Mopani
Municipality
Dr T Simelane – Director: Forestry Policy and Strategy, CLLR. Humphery Makgobi
– Executive Mayor: Mopani District Municipality, CLLR. Ms Suzan Sibiya, CLLR.
Norman Makumbane – Mayor Thulamela Municipality, Mr. Mulovhedzi – Municipal
Manager: Vhembe District, CLLR. Irene Mutsila – Executive Mayor Vhembe District
Municipality, CLLR. Glory Mashaba – Mayor: Nzhelele, Mr. S Mbedzi – DWAF, Mr. M
S Selamolele – Speaker: Blouberg Local Municipality, CLLR. Refilwe Kubjana –
Mayor, Ms Tracey Malatyi – Municipality Manager: Capricorn District
municipality, CLLR. Motalane Monakedi – Executive Mayor Capricorn District
Municipality.
1.4 North West Province
delegation
Mr. TDH Ramphele (Leader of delegation) (ANC), Ms P Bhengu (ANC), Ms J Semple
(DA), Mr. PHK Ditshetelo (UCDP).
1.5 Officials from the North
West Province
Mr. Chadwick Lobakeng: Regional Director – DWAF, Mr. Bongani Msimang: Support
Staff – DWAF, Rev. SH Letlape: Director: Department of Local Government and
Housing, Ms S Mayoli: Regional Programme Leader: Working for Water - DWAF
2. LIMPOPO PROVINCE
2.1. Overview of the Progress on Delivery of Water in the Limpopo Province –
Written Presentations
Provincial Overview: Department of
Water Affairs and Forestry
Limpopo Province consists of 5 District and 25 Local Municipalities. The Province has 12 Water Service Authorities. Sekhukhune, as
one of the District Municipalities, has been declared a rural nodal point.
The progress in water services reflects the following:
From an initial backlog of 4.1 million in 1995, the water backlog has been
reduced to 2.7 million. 18 villages
have been targeted in which job creation will take place.
Free Basic Water (FBW): 3.7 million out
of 5.8 million people have been provided with FBW. The poor represent 2.1 out of the 3.7 million.
In terms of planning, Water Services Development Plans (WSDPs) have been
developed for all water services authorities and updated bi-annually.
Water has been prioritised, for example, R443 million out of R821 million
within the Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG) is for Water and Sanitation.
DWAF officials provide support through Project Consolidate to Municipalities in
planning, implementation and institutional development.
Interim operation of schemes by DWAF:
the operations subsidy is R526 million for the 2006/07.
Transfers: all Water Service Authorities
(WSAs) have signed transfer agreements with the exception of one.
Of the 5640 staff, DWAF has seconded 700 staff to Sekhukhune, 220 to
Mogalakwena, and transferred 44 to Lephalale.
Municipalities are taking over customer care functions.
The progress in water resources development reflects the following:
The water resources development planning supports the Provincial Growth and
Development Strategy (PGDS). The linking of the following strategies, that of
the National Water Resource Strategy (NWRS) and Strategic Framework for Water
Services has been developed, and linking this to the PGDS is underway.
The second draft of the Limpopo Water Strategy has been developed. The next step would be to hold a provincial
workshop to finalise the document would be scheduled. This will be presented to the MEC for Local Government.
The large projects in Limpopo under the NWRS comprise the Nandoni Dam (Olifants
River) which will be raised by 5 metres, and de Hoop Dam (Steelspoort River).
Construction on de Hoop Dam is expected to begin in 2006. The Nwamitwa Dam (Great Letaba River) was
approved by the Limpopo Exco in September 2005. A project co-ordinating
committee was established to:
investigate financing options; undertake international negotiations and
environmental impact assessments. The
Inyaka Dam (Marite River) was completed in 2001. The Modjadi Dam Weirs: Nondweni (Letaba River), Xikundu (Luvuvhu).
The Tzaneen Dam (Great Letaba River) rising has been planned.
The progress made in terms of water resources institutions comprise the
following:
There are 3 main water management areas, Limpopo, Luvuvhu/Letaba, and Olifants,
managed by Mpumalanga Province.
The catchment management is currently done by DWAF (Proto-CMAs).
6 Water User Associations have been established in the Limpopo Province
(Nzhelele, Thabina, Lebalelo, Great Letaba, Mutala and Mutshimbwe).
Representative monitoring points are established at strategic points, for
example, rivers/streams, dams, major aquifers, discharge points from mines and
industries.
The challenges impaling the water resources institutions comprise the
following:
There are difficulties in consolidating the roles and responsibilities of the
following stakeholders in water services:
regulator (DWAF), authorities (WSA) and supporters (DLGH and DWAF). The providers (Water boards, local
municipalities), especially regional water services providers.
Ensuring adherence to Water Services regulations and standards is a problem,
especially to assure good services to customers (quality, quantity,
affordability and sustainability).
Ensuring adherence to master plans for water resources and water services is
also a problem.
Funding for water services to take water from water resources to households is
not available.
Disaster management: drought, floods
and waterborne diseases are undertaken through the disaster management
committee and joint operational committee.
The methods to address the water and sanitation backlogs are long term measures
in terms of water resource development, restrictions, drilling boreholes to
urgent problem areas, tinkering, water demand management and cost recovery.
Cost effective utilisation of water resources, for example the use of
groundwater, recycling, floods, close operation of dam levels, emergency
preparedness plan.
Promotion of water conservation/demand management.
Monitoring of water quality and quantity in terms of awareness campaign and
cost recovery.
Financing of water services infrastructure and operations and maintenance
budgets.
Illegal connections and stolen equipments.
Long-lead time to establish catchment management agencies (CMAs) and user
associations, for example public participation process.
Solving the overall water deficit for Limpopo Province, for example,
agriculture and mining.
iv. The progress made in
terms of forestry comprises the following:
Commercial Forests manages 5000 hectares of gum and pine. Indigenous forest management conserves 15
000 hectares of natural forests. The
forestry development division focuses on the forestry resources
programmes. The forestry oversight
division regulates the sector according to the National Forest Act (NFA) and
National Veld and Forest Fire Act (NVFFA).
The forestry institutional support focuses on provincial growth and
development strategies, integrated development planning and local economic
development.
In terms of the forestry enterprise development (community empowerment, it
comprises forestry enterprise programmes (small timber growers, small mining
timber suppliers, etc). Livelihood support programmes are bee keeping projects,
bird watching, woodcarving, etc. The
forestry awareness programmes comprise Arbour Week, Arbour City Award,
Edu-Plant and Greening Strategy.
2.2 Working for Water Programme
The Working for Water Programme is an Expanded Public Works Programme
intervention led by the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry. The
integrated approach followed for the Working for Water is:
Technical – clearing of invasive alien plants.
Social – HIV and AIDS training and life skills development.
Economic = contractor development – building of strategic partnerships.
The working for water’s implementation of cooperative governance identified the
projects within the district municipalities and operations are done in line
with the integrated development plan for social upliftment and poverty
alleviation.
A memorandum of agreement has been signed between the Department of Labour and
the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry. The Department of Labour funds
skills development/training of workers and contractors. Aquatic weeds and the
rivers worked thus far are Letaba River in the Tzaneen area and the Wilge River
in the Groblersdal area. The species
targeted are the water hyacinth, and kariba weed. The method of work consists
of aerial and hand spraying of herbicide and biological control agents.
Expenditure – April – June 2006
Employment Created To-Date
|
Number of People |
|||
|
Women |
Youth |
Disabled |
Total Number of People |
|
223 |
39 |
0 |
388 |
|
5 |
1 |
0 |
13 |
|
15 |
7 |
0 |
25 |
|
14 |
3 |
0 |
29 |
|
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
257 |
50 |
0 |
455 |
2.3 Project Consolidate and Disaster Management: Department of Local Government and Housing
Since
2004, Municipalities have encountered a number of challenges. This prompted the Government to adopt a
targeted programme of intervention, Project Consolidate. The Department of Provincial and Local
Government undertook a study to profile municipalities in terms of the
following indicators:
Municipalities affected by 4 main basic service delivery measures: electricity, water, sanitation and refuse
removal.
Municipal services debt and billing systems.
Municipalities performing less than 30% of their assigned functions.
Municipalities under section 139 interventions.
Municipalities in financial distress.
In Limpopo, the following 15 municipalities were identified as Project
Consolidate based on the above criteria.
|
Sekhukhune DM |
Greater Tubatse |
|
Capricorn |
Blouberg |
|
Mopani |
Greater Letaba |
|
Waterberg |
Thabazimbi |
|
Vhembe |
Makhada |
In terms of the progress made as a province, with regard to Project
Consolidate, the following was noted:
All the Project Consolidate municipalities passed council resolutions in support
of the programme.
All municipalities developed municipality action plans.
Provincial programme of action developed.
Action plans for respective elements developed.
Provincial steering committee constituted and functional.
8 element leaders appointed.
Constituted working teams at all the Project Consolidate municipalities during
January 2006.07.30 undertook audits on service delivery for the province. 1996 and 2001 census information and service
delivery between 2000 – 2005.
District profiles compiled (basic services, led, financial viability,
institutional transformation and capacity building, governance and public
participation.
2.4 Overview of Water and Sanitation Services in the Greater Sekhukhune
District Municipality
The District consists of five local municipalities. They are Greater Groblersdal, Greater Marble Hall, Greater
Tubatse, Fetakgomo and Makhuduthamaga.
The total population of the District is approximately 1 024 748
people. 55% of the population consist
of women, 56 of the population is under the age of 20, approximately 23% of the
population does not have formal education and 23% of the population has primary
education, 22 has secondary education and only 1% has tertiary education.
The District settlement patterns are largely rural with approximately 500
dispersed villages. The main
contributions to the economy are community services (52%), mining (20%) and
trade (17%). Tourism, agriculture and
manufacturing have significant potential to be further enhanced. Only 30, 9% of the population is
employed. Employment stands at 69,
1%. The District still faces huge
infrastructural backlogs on basic services – water – 69%, sanitation – 80% and
electricity – 60%.
Water and Sanitation Provision
33 070 households do not have access to any sanitation service whilst 127 331
rely on pit latrines that are not ventilated. Current sanitation backlog is
estimated at 80%, that is, households below RDP standards. 69% of our
population still does not have access to water at RDP standards.
The Greater Sekhukhune District Municipality supplies the 6000 free litres of
water, and indigent accounts are paid in areas where there are meters and
billing takes place. Water is supplied through water tankers to some villages
without infrastructure. 162 000 households benefit annually from Free Basic
Water in the GSDM. An amount of R15, 0 million allocated for Free Basic Water
in the last financial year, has been fully utilised. An amount of R17, 0
million is allocated for Free Basic Water provision during the 06/07 financial
year
Some
of the challenges noted were the following:
The implementation of the Section 78 process and resolutions taken by Council
was proving to be a problem as buy-in by all into the process was problematic.
Re-organizing former DWAF staff into municipal structures has its own
challenges.
The implementation and supervision of recruiting and retaining technical skills
for project planning was a problem.
An additional R1, 9 billion is allegedly required to eradicate the backlog.
This figure excludes the De Hoop Dam development.
Current grant funding appears inadequate to ensure National targets are met.
The construction of the De hoop Dam and raising of the Flag Boshielo Dam wall
is crucial to water supply in the District.
Water demand management measures to be
implemented.
Capacity of emerging service providers.
The complex geographic terrain of the district poses a problem.
The high water pumping costs at Nebo Plato is a critical issue.
Small and scattered villages remains challenged in receiving water supply.
The WSDP documentation process is completed, but many gaps still remain. It is a process to accumulate and build
information base.
The vandalism of infrastructure still creates problems.
The District still has major backlogs with regard to water and sanitation.
The recommendations, suggested by the presentation incorporated the following:
Given the low-income levels in the District, appropriate and affordable
delivery models in line with RDP standards should be developed.
Low revenue base challenges the institutions to emerge with new financial
models to build the local economy thereby ensuring their sustainability.
Sustainable infrastructure is needed to support economic development.
Sector departments need to improve the allocation of resources to the district
as a Presidential Node.
Integrated planning is required between the three spheres of government and
also public entities in infrastructure provision.
Institutional support around issues of planning, project management, financial
management, are needed.
In response to the manner in which the District Municipality is addressing the
challenges, the following was noted:
The development of a cost recovery system. An implementation strategy for the
cost recovery system has been developed.
Tariff structures have been developed and will be implemented in October 2006.
By-laws have been developed and will be implemented in October 2006. An implementation strategy for the by-laws
has been developed.
Operation and maintenance of transferred DWAF Schemes are in progress.
The implementation of decisions taken during the Section 78 process will be
concluded by December 2006.
A three-year implementation process has been devised to implement a
refurbishment programme of all transferred DWAF infrastructure.
Overview of Water and Sanitation
Services in the Vhembe District Municipality
Vhembe District Municipality was established on 5 December 2000 and consists of
four Local Municipalities, namely: Thulamela, Makhado, Musina and Mutale. It
covers an area of 21 407 sq km. The District settlement pattern is largely
rural with about 772 communities. The District Municipality has a population of
1.376 374 people and 264 687.31 household. 89, 7% of population resides in a
rural area
Water and Sanitation Provision
The District still faces huge infrastructural backlogs on basic services: Water – 53% and sanitation – 73%. The District has 22 regional and functional
schemes, 1 172 operational supplementary boreholes, 14 water treatment works, 5
sewage works, 9 ponds and 183 dry, collapsed and vandalized boreholes. Approximately 1001/c/d purified bulk water
is being distributed to communities.
In terms of water provision, the infrastructure backlog to RDP street taps is
53% (approximately 729 136 people). 527
communities (85.9%) experience operation and maintenance problems and poor
infrastructure conditions. Only 51 communities have adequate water
infrastructure. About R528 million is needed to eradicate the backlog. R264 million per annum is needed to reach
the national targets.
The water and sanitation provision for the District is as follows:
The Makhado Local Municipality, a Presidential project, sources underground
water. The scheme, a pre-paid meter one
was completed in 1998. The community
has vandalized the scheme, as there is opposition to the installation of
prepaid meters. The objective of the
prepaid meters was to conserve water as the source is limited. There is a
shortage of water in some areas. In the Vuwani area, the Water scheme is unable
to supply water to the area.. Water does not reach the reservoir as pipes were
connected to old ones. Water is supplied by truck once a week to the area.
Water quality challenges occur in the Hanani village too.
In the Tshitale region, there is also a reliance on underground water. At
Mulima and Likhade there are one electrical borehole and two boreholes equipped
with hand pumps. The water reticulation does not cover more than 30% of the
village. Villagers in Lambani collect water from Likhade or from the river. At
Pfanani there is only one borehole which pumps to the reticulation system and
demand is very high.
At Muwaweni, Madadzhi, Geradine, Mangovhe, Salaunavhe and Slanger, two
boreholes are connected to the reticulation system for Madadzhi, Geraldine and
Mangovhe. Demand is very high. Water reticulation cannot cover 40% of the
village. At Muwaweni, Slanger and
Salaunavhe, two boreholes equipped with diesel driven pumps water to
reticulation system (Muwaweni). The
demand is also very high at Salaunavhe and Slanger, two hand pumps supply water
to the villages.
At Nthabalala, there are boreholes supplying water to the area.
At the Nzhelele Water Scheme, all the villages to the West receive water from
the Mutshedzi Dam. There are a number
of illegal connections. There is also an augmentation from the boreholes.
Villages to the south get water from Tshifhire Water Scheme. On the North West villages like Mudimeli and
Pfumembe get water from the Sandwel. Currently there are technical problems,
but work is being undertaken to rectify these.
At the Thulamela Local Municipality, water is provided by boreholes in the
following areas: Mavunde, Sambandou, Mahuwi, Shanzha Tshitavha, Tswera and
Mangaya. A bulk water supply project (R10m) for the above areas to be
implemented in the current financial year (2006/2007). With access to water
problems, also it was reported in September 2005, that cases were reported of a
disease at the clinic. People from these villages fetch water from streams, in
some algae surround water accompanied by animals using the water too. Out of
the three public boreholes, only one is functioning.
The District anticipates reaching the 2010 national sanitation target. 24 022 VIPs have been constructed as of
2001. The sanitation backlog is at
73%. R11,232 million has been spent on
sanitation for 2005/06, and a further R25 million has been budgeted for 2007 to
construct VIP toilets.
The following challenges of water and sanitation provision were highlighted in
the presentation:
Sanitation: Lack of resources and water
services infrastructure. At present,
about R545 million is required to eradicate the backlog. R136 million per annum is needed to reach
the national target of 2010. The
sustainability of the VIPs, with regard to maintenance is emerging as a
problem.
Water: Non-adherence to the operation
manuals poses a problem. The water is
no longer good for consumption, as water contains calcium. Cost recovery also poses a problem. No integrated planning on the settlement
development. Copper water pipes are
stolen to make rings. Illegal
connections cause major disruptions.
The general problems highlighted by the presentation revealed the following:
Lack of demand management.
Lack of reasonable cost recovery.
Refurbishment of schemes was expensive.
The demand exceeded the design capacity.
The population growth versus demand has not been factored in.
The operation and maintenance costs are high.
Vandalism and stealing of engines for water services systems, for example, valves,
telemetry and boreholes prove to be costly.
The lack of underground water and limited sources exacerbates the water
situation.
Vhembe District Municipality provided the following recommendations:
Water quality monitoring needed to be rigorously undertaken.
Operation and maintenance funds to be carefully considered.
Demand management and cost recovery issues to be examined.
Outstanding issues, such as transfer agreements, WSP process, resources to meet
the national targets are to be urgently addressed.
Overview of Water and Sanitation
Provision in the Capricorn District Municipality
Capricorn traverses parts of the Sand Catchment Area, Mogalakwena Catchment
Area and Olifants Catchment. There is
little economic activity, and most of the population is mainly dependent on
agricultural activities and mining. In the Blouberg Municipality, shortages of
water exist in the Springfield-Lesfontein. Although a water project was
established in 1986, it is not purified and is too salty. Trucks supply water to
the local community when the salt block the pipes, however in instances where
the trucks arrive too late, the community resort to the streams which is not
suitable for human consumption.
Water and Sanitation Provision
A significant growth in water demand is expected due to planned mining
developments at Lephalale and Mokopane.
Currently, water requirements are broadly balanced with water
resources. Water is being imported to
Sand River Catchment (Polokwane) from Olifants and Groot Letaba. Groundwater is not optimally used to supply
rural domestic needs in certain areas.
The opportunities for further dams are limited. The Mogalakwena Catchment has been
identified for compulsory licensing.
The water resources are obtained from the following:
Blouberg – depends on ground water.
Agagang – mainly ground water.
Moleole – mainly ground water.
Capricorn – ground water, water from Groot Letaba River and Olifants River.
Lepelle-Nkumpi – ground water and smaller dams and Flag Boshielo Dam on
Olifants River.
The reconciliation option to increase water resources in this area is the
construction of the New De Hoop Dam.
Other measures to meet demands:
In terms of water conservation and demand management: Diversify tariffs,
monitor night flows, to manage pressure and leakage, and to achieve savings in
urban and rural areas, as well as the agricultural sector.
Re-use of effluent will also be a contributory factor.
Increased ground water use.
Leasing of water.
Re-allocation of water entitlements.
Conjunctive use of water.
Assurances of supply optimisation.
The recommendations that emerged from this presentation incorporated the
following:
DWAF needs timely information on future developments and water
requirements.
Water Service Development Plans, Integrated Development Plans and Provincial
Growth and Development Strategies need to be regularly reviewed and
communicated.
Presentation by the South African Local
Government Association (SALGA)
SALGA’s presentation provided detail on the following:
Background on the Masibambane Programme Management in the Province (Provincial
Collaborative Structure).
Strategic Framework for Water Services.
Provincial Water Strategy.
Transfer/Section 78 processes.
Provincial Joint Response Facility.
The Masibambane Programme evolved as a forum, which represents the water sector
with representations from the District and Local Municipalities. The Cabinet approved a Strategic Framework
for Water Services (2003) sets out a vision for the sector with specific goals
and targets, and clearly describes the roles of all key sector partners. Masimbambane Limpopo used the National
Strategic Framework to develop Provincial Water Services Strategy. The Provincial Water Services Strategy was
approved and adopted by the Provincial Water Summit. The Collaborative Committee is spearheaded and chaired by SALGA,
DWAF and DLGH.
The current status of the Provincial Water Strategy, reflects the following:
Consultations with Water Service Authorities were undertaken in the Province
and a second draft strategy was developed.
This will be work-shopped with sector stakeholder.
In terms of the Transfer/Section 78 processes, DWAF engaged in a process of
transferring water schemes and personnel to Water Services Authorities. A total of 84 schemes and 5654 personnel
form DWAF were to be transferred to WSAs by 31 March 2006. Three schemes in Vhembe DM and two schemes
in Sekhukhune DM required Cabinet decision for them to be transferred as their
value is above R100 million each.
The Provincial Joint Response Facility Programme was created by partnerships
between DBSA-DF, SALGA Limpopo, DWAF and water sector stakeholders in Limpopo
Province to address the needs of WSAs in Section 78 assessment as required in
terms of Municipal Systems Act, and to transfer schemes from DWAF.
In response to a Presidential directive on councillor training and capacitation
programme, DWAF, SALGA and DLGH rolled out an intensive councillor induction
programme in all District Municipalities.
The challenges highlighted by SALGA encompassed the following:
The clarification of contractual obligations between DWAF and WSAs had to be
dealt with.
Suspensive clause had to be incorporated in the final transfer agreement.
Parliamentary approval required for schemes in excess of R100 million.
There is still a need to support the receiving authorities on the post-transfer
challenges.
A need exists to develop support programmes for after care of these schemes.
WSAs need Human Resource support in their transfer processes.
Olifants River Resources Development Project
The President in his 2003 State of the Nation Address announced the
construction of a dam in the Olifants River system to unblock the rich mineral
deposits in the Limpopo Province. With
such a catalyst, it is economical to supply water to towns, industries and
poorly serviced rural communities in the Sekhukhune area. The first phase of the Olifants River
Project comprises the raising of the Flag Boshielo Dam, which is already 95%
complete.
Cabinet in 2004, approved Phase 2A of the Project comprises the implementation
of the De Hoop Dam on the Steelpoort River in the short term as the need for
water services and mining increase. The
De Hoop Dam is the only feasible option to supply water to the Nebo Plateau
where approximately 800 000 people reside, the vast majority of whom have
totally insufficient access to potable water due to the general scarcity in the
area.
Phase 2A was included in Government’s Programme of Action for 2006 in pursuit
of achieving goals for supplying basic water services, to support the Growth
and Development Strategy of the Limpopo Province with associated growth
opportunities in support of the Accelerated and Shared Growth Initiative of
South Africa (ASGISA), whilst providing an anchor project for the development
of the Dilokong Corridor. The Project
is developed with the support and cooperation of the Mpumalanga and Limpopo
Provinces and Local Government.
The main aim is the creation of a large storage dam at De Hoop on the
Steelpoort River to commence partial impoundment and delivery of water by the
spring of 2009, and final completion and commission during 2010.
A section of the provincial road P169 – 1 (R555) between Middelburg and
Burgersfort will be submerged by the future De Hoop Dam, and therefore requires
alignment. The realigned route of about
20 kilometres will pass the new dam on the western side. The tender design is 95% complete.
An appeal was made by the South African National Parks against the record of
decision of the above project. SANParks noted their concern around options of
the environmental authorisation and the challenges faced by SANParks in
protecting biodiversity and DWAF on the other hand with giving effect to the
Reserve.
SANParks and DWAF agreed that the concerns of SANParks could be divided into:
Matters directly pertaining to the proposed project.
Matters of a wider water resource policy and management nature that concern
SANParks in general.
With respect to matters directly pertaining to the proposed project, it was
agreed that DWAF would, at all stages of the project, involve SANParks in
matters relating to rivers that drain into the national parks, and in this
particular case, it was agreed that SANParks, as a key stakeholder, needed to
participate during the implementation of this project. It would be proposed that Condition 3.2.1.2
be widened in order to allow for representation by SANParks in the
Environmental Monitoring Committee.
With respect to matters of a wider water resource policy…SANParks in general,
DWAF agreed that these could best be dealt with bilaterally with the two
institutions. The agreed approach would
consider the following:
It was agreed that liaison between the two needed to be formalised to deal with
matters of mutual interest. One of the
standing agenda points of a liaison committee would be regular assessments of
the status of water resources including all SANParks conservation areas,
including KNP rivers, to inform decisions on possibly restricting water use,
that is, to ensure that the required flow is available for maintaining healthy
ecosystems.
DWAF complied with the requirements of the SADC revised Protocol on Shared
Watercourses in informing the countries sharing the Limpopo River Basin with
South Africa, namely Botswana, Zimbabwe and Mozambique about the intended
construction of the De Hoop Dam. No
objections were raised.
A delay in the building of the dam are been experienced due to the
environmental objections.
An integrated extended public works approach does not appear to be followed
currently.
Challenges faced by the Kruger National Park in terms of water conservation projects, biodiversity and the
protection of ecosystems
The Reserve is described as the only right to water by the National Water Act
(36 of 1998). While South Africa’s
National Water Act and Water Policy provide the legislative and policy
framework for water allocations, the implementation and monitoring thereof seem
to be lacking is many departments, or is being delayed. Subsequently, the rivers draining through
the KNP has deteriorated over the past years.
The rivers draining through the KNP are used for different purposes,
including agriculture, mining, industrial, dams for purification purposes to
serve human needs and finally for biodiversity conservation. All these varied uses, is also the need to
allow some amount of water to drain into the neighbouring country,
Mozambique. The ‘reserve’ is however
not been implemented and the consequences are extremely demanding on the
KNP.
The rivers draining through the KNP are greatly over-utilised. Pollution from various sources compound the
problem, thereby degrading the riverine habitat and reducing the supply and
quality of the river water. The KNP has
the mandate to preserve it biodiversity in the national interest. The quantity and quality of the rivers are
continuously deteriorating to the detriment of the biodiversity, and this makes
it difficult for the KNP to achieve its mission. There are various threats to the ecosystem in all the rivers,
involving the KNP when it comes to water availability.
Water quality has also deteriorated over time.
A contributing factor to the deteriorating water quality is over
abstraction. The little water that
remains in the system become saturated with dissolved substances to such an
extent that it becomes unsuitable for some of the sensitive species in the
water.
The building of dams and numerous weirs for the balancing of water in the river
systems has not helped the problem either.
Big dams like the Nandoni Dam on the Luvuvhu River has no fish
ways. This prevents the migration of
aquatic biodiversity from one end to the other. These structures on the rivers have contributed to the
accumulation of silt/sediment in the system.
Dams and weirs also serve as traps for invasive plants. These invasive aquatic plants are washed
down the river whenever there are floods, and this makes it difficult for the
KNP invasive control unit to eradicate these unwanted species.
The only environmental reserve determined for the KNP Rivers that is being
implemented is that of the Sabie River.
Although all the rivers have in-stream flow requirements determined by
DWAF, none is being implemented.
The recommendations noted by the presentation, incorporated the following:
Institutional: The water resources of
South Africa must be managed to ensure that the resources are sustainable for
both current and future use. The
Government has a responsibility to ensure that water is managed to achieve
social and economic benefits in a manner that is environmentally
sustainable.
Legislation: Implementation/Application
of relevant legislation, including Chapter 18 of Agenda 21, White Paper on
National Water Policy, Protected Areas Act, Biodiversity Act, National Water
Act and National Water Resource Strategy.
South Africa has a strong legislative framework through the National
Water Act for providing water resources management measures. Water resources would be better if these
adhered to. These include:
Restrictions on water use.
Development and implementation of catchment water management plans.
Development and implementation of water allocation plans for all prescribed
water resources in the State.
Extensive community consultation during the preparation of all water plans.
Review of the condition of the water resources.
Compilation, maintenance and updating of information concerning the State’s
natural resources.
Sharing of information on the natural resources.
The Reserve: Reserve determination (comprehension) for all the rivers involving
the KNP should be undertaken as a matter of urgency. Thereafter, a proper
monitoring system should be in place by all stakeholders concerned. A much more
concerted action and proper law enforcement should then be embarked on to help
solve the problems over the long-term. In the meantime, operating rules being
developed by DWAF in conjunction with stakeholders should be used to ensure
equitable and judicious use of the water resources. The implementation of the
‘operating rules’, and the available data, in the absence of the comprehensive
reserve should be regarded as a priority for the benefit of all users.
Catchment Forums: The River Forums that
have been established throughout the catchments serve as platforms, to among
other things, the creation of awareness on the plight of the rivers in the
KNP. Members include municipalities,
farmers, the industries, mines, communities, government departments and the
KNP. Many more of these forums should
be established. A need exists to work on the important issue of, ‘How water
resource users and stakeholders will be able to influence decision-making and
contribute to resource management (use patterns)?’ For example, through
integrated management – involving everyone who has a stake or interest in the
water resource. Managing conflicts
between stakeholders with different interests and creating buy-ins with/for the
problem/vision at hand. Educating
people about the problems, and to work out solutions together in relation to
legislation and other guidelines.
Environment inspectors: Environmental
inspectors to supplement the efforts of government departments are an important
option. Such inspectors, with the
technical and operational expertise can contribute to the sound management of
water resources.
Inter catchment transfers: The
transfers out of a catchment. In making
its determination whether transfers may be permitted, the department should:
Protect present, and consider projected stream uses of the losing river basin
generally, and of the losing river specifically including, but not limited to,
present agricultural, municipal, industrial and in-stream uses, and
assimilative needs.
Protect water quality of the losing river basin.
Consider reasonably foreseeable future water needs of the applicant for the
water to be transferred, including methods of water use, conservation, and
efficiency of use.
Consider beneficial impact on the catchment and its local subcatchments of any
proposed transfer, and the capability of the applicant to implement effectively
its responsibility under the requested permit.
Consider the nature of the permittee’s use of water to determine whether the
use is reasonable and beneficial.
Consider whether the proposed project shall promote and increase the storage
and conservation of water.
Consider the feasibility of alternative sources of supply and their comparative
costs.
Consider availability of water in the losing river basin to respond to
emergencies, including drought.
Consider whether the project shall have any beneficial or detrimental impact on
fish and wildlife habitat, aesthetics, or recreation.
Consider such other facts and circumstances as are reasonably necessary to
carry out the purpose of the NWA.
Catchment management agencies: CMAs
should monitor, control and or implement the development along the rivers,
research and policy development, information and education of the public, alien
species control, wetlands development and protection, bank erosion, resource
protection, water quality monitoring with respect to physical, chemical,
microbiological and biological components.
Further tasks that the agencies could undertake are: to promote and ensure a high level of
awareness amongst and support from managers (internal and external), water
users, action groups, politicians and the public. Co-operative governance, information management, delegated
authority driving partnerships, communication at all levels, alignment of
initiatives, ecological integrity versus economic and social development and
conservation targets versus river classification.
For each prescribed resource, a water allocation plan should be prepared in
close conjunction with the stakeholders.
Water allocation plans will provide information on water that is
available for use as well as for the environment, and policies on the
allocation and transfer of water. Where
immediate controls are required to manage water resources that are under
pressure, a notice of restriction or prohibition may be applied. This temporary control ‘holds’ water use at
current levels while the capacity of the resource, its ability to provide for
future growth and the need to prescribe the resource are assessed.
Lepelle Northern Water
Lepelle Northern Water (LNW) Board was established in 1997
by the Minister of Water Affairs and Forestry in terms of the Water Service
Act, 1997. The area of jurisdiction of the board starts at Hoedspruit and
Sekhukhune in the South, Mogalakwena municipal area in the west and it extend
to Capricon, Vhembe and Mopani district municipal areas. LNW operates eight
schemes which produce a total of 211 Ml/day of potable water and 120 Ml/day of
industrial water.
Lepelle Northern Water operates within parameters set out in the Water Services
Act, 1997 and strives towards achieving a balance between a number of key
requirements. Given the challenge the Board faces of transforming itself into a
supplier of equal and efficient services to all members of the population under
its jurisdiction, the following three functions have been identified as being
of particular relevance:
Achieving financial viability.
Promoting the efficiency of water services authorities.
Taking cognizance of the needs of water services institutions, consumers and
users.
The highlights of the financial component of Lepelle showed the following:
The Olifants/Sand partnership loan of R218 million was successfully redeemed at
the end of October 2005. The loan was a
result of ministerial directive to the Board in 1995 to construct a pipeline
from Olifants scheme to Perkusbult, drought situation in Polokwane and
surrounding areas.
Public private partnership with Anglo Platinum, Mogalakwena Municipality and
Lepelle Northern Water: R90 million
pipeline was placed to improve security of supply.
Public private partnership with Anglo-Platinum, Polokwane Municipality and
Lepelle Northern Water: R28 million
pipeline was placed to improve security of water.
The Board has successful refinanced the Ebenezer Loan taken from DWAF at 15.75%
with a loan from DBSA at 9.2% resulting in interest savings of R12 million over
the term of the loan.
General Reserve Fund – the deficits at R7 million (2004/05) from R24 million in
2003/04.
In terms of tariff policy, the following was noted:
The Board uses a full absorption costing method when determining tariffs. The tariffs of the Board are scheme based
and take into account the cost drivers associated to the scheme.
In determining and approving the tariffs, the Board consults with the
stakeholders as provided for in the MFMA, section 42.
The tariff adjustments or increases are tabled in Parliament by the Minister of
Water Affairs and Forestry for approval.
The Board has taken a policy decision in 2000 on tariff equalization
over the next ten (10) years. The
equalization process has been phased in the tariff over the past five years.
The strategic challenges noted by the presentation:
The Board has presented its services to the WSAs of Vhembe, Sekhukhune, Mopani
and Capricorn pending the finalisation of their Municipal Systems Act (32 of
2003), section 78 processes.
There are uncertainties around the transfer of assets and personnel to WSAs
(Assets = R2, 089 million and personnel = 4731). The Board has positioned itself to assist the receiving
municipalities in the transfer process.
The bulk infrastructure development of de Hoop Dam and Flag Boshielo pipeline
to Mokgalakwena. The Board will cost
and quantify assistance to the indigents in the area of operation.
The assurance of supply of water for Capricorn and Polokwani Municipalities is
a problem as the Ebenezer Scheme is vulnerable to drought (no inter basin
transfer) and could not meet the requirements of the city. The Olifantspoort Scheme is designed for a
capacity of 30ML/day and is currently stretched to 42 ML/day. The cross border schemes of Middle Letaba
and Olifantspoort are considered a challenge as they serve different Water
Service Authorities.
The Ba-Phalaborwa municipality debt to Lepelle Northern Water is a
challenge. The Municipality experienced
difficulties and could not fulfil its obligations and the accumulated arrear
amount is at R110 million. The Board
informed the Premier, Minister of Water Affairs and Forestry, MEC Local
Government and Housing and Mopani District Municipality. The matter is receiving priority attention. To date, all stakeholders have agreed to put
the credit control measures in abeyance against the municipality. A submission was forwarded to the
Director-General and Minister for assistance.
The Board will consider a contribution on the interest portion of the
debts.
The following plans to address the above strategic challenges were noted:
An institutional model is complete for Lepelle Northern as per the Strategic
Framework for water services.
Cost recovery solution for municipalities experiencing difficulties, such as
Sekhukhune District Municipality.
Lepelle Northern Water has positioned itself, and is ready to offer assistance
during transfers of assets in Mopani, Sekhukhune, Vhembe and Capricorn.
Software solutions have been developed, which will be suitable for rural areas,
and can assist quantifying the indigents.
Fast tracking certain aspects of the Olifants River Water
Services Development – a provision of R150 million has been made for the fast
tracking of Phase 2E and 2D of Olifants River Development. An investment of R3 billion to be unlocked.
2.8
Discussions from Written Presentation
2.8.1 The challenges faced by local government and housing in assisting
municipalities to optimise delivery of water and sanitation
Serious municipal infrastructure backlogs were noted, and these impeded the
facilitation of access to basic services.
Whilst these have been addressed by the Consolidated Municipal
Infrastructure Programme, aimed at dealing with the current infrastructure
backlog, in some municipalities, posed a bigger problem. In 2004, the MIG was introduced to
consolidate Water Services Projects.
The Department intends to facilitate the development of Municipal
Infrastructure Plans to guide future municipal infrastructure investment and
development. Water provision is still
a major challenge, and where there is considerable progress, the programme is
hampered by the lack of access to reliable infrastructure, and the delays in
appointments of water services providers as per the requirements of the section
78 processes.
The department is still faced with the challenge of effective coordination of
municipal Integrated Development Plan process.
A number of the IDPs are not yet legally compliant. The challenge is to ensure that IDPs become
legally compliant and the content supports both social and economic
development.
Municipalities: Capacity Assessments of Functions, incorporating authority,
service provision, budget information and income information, staffing and
equipment – an overview
|
|
Sanitation |
Water |
|
Sekukhune District Municipality |
The Greater Marble Hall LM does
not understand its authority for this function. |
Marble LM does not understand its
authority for this function. |
|
Vhembe District Municipality |
All municipalities understood
their authority for the sanitation function.
However, only Vhembe DM is authorised to render this function. |
All municipalities understood
their authority for the water function during the 2005 assessment. |
The information above highlighted to the delegation issues that need to be
factored when focusing on the capacity assessments of functions of
municipalities. These can range from
budget provision for water and sanitation, staff available for the function,
equipment available for the function, service level agreements, sections 78
processes, as well as details of service provision.
The process undertaken to transfer staff was a major issue.
All municipalities prioritised the issue of receiving bigger budgets.
Water provision to the mining sector as opposed to communities was raised as a
problem.
New technologies needed to be developed to address the sanitation issue that is
locale specific to the Limpopo region.
A review of legislation, policies and programmes may be required to address
water and sanitation issues.
2.9 Findings at Site Visits
2.9.1 Flag Botshielo Dam
The raising of the dam is to provide water services to the adjacent
communities.
2.9.2 Mokopane Dam
The dam is going to serve the
communities in the surrounding areas.
2.9.3 Proposed De Hoop Dam site and the Proposed ESKOM Power
The committee also visited the site where the Proposed Hoop Dam will be built
and where the Eskom Power supplier will be generating water.
A delay in building of the dam is caused by environmental objections, now been
looked at by the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism.
2.9.4 Shingwezi River
This is the river running inside the Kruger National Park.
Most of the years, the river is dry and becoming difficult for the animals to
get water.
It is alleged that building of dams inside the Park is not an option as it can
change the diversity of the Park.
2.9.5 Sand Mining
The illegal sand mining is a problem.
Some of the species died because of this problem.
An investigation team should be placed to look at the issue
2.9.6 Working for water project
The team consists of 10 employees.
The project is of good help to the community and it also managing the spices
well.
2.9.7 Nandoni Dam
The dam is well built and ready to serve the community with water.
The purification is expected to be completed in September 2007.
After that, the municipality will be responsible for supplying of water to
communities.
2.9.8 Tswera Community
The community of Tswera has no water.
They drink water from the streams and sometimes the streams dried out and they
have to travel long distances to get water.
Boreholes would be the solution.
2.9.9 Tshitavha community
The community depends on rivers for water and they experienced problem of
people dying from diarrhoea.
The community needs proper sources of water, purified water from the dams.
Sometimes they get water from the boreholes, and the water is full of mud and
needs to be cleaned.
The village has a wetland and the fountain and the people drink from the
fountain and the water is not safe.
2.9.10 Nzhelele Municipality (Water User Association)
The Water User Association was formed, a Chairperson was elected but not yet
operational, as DWAF has not informed them of whether the association has
compiled so as to begin their functions.
The Nzhelele Dam services only farmers and it should serve the communities
around as well.
The existing schemes do not cater for all the water needs water in the
community.
2.9.11 Nze Community
The village does not have water.
They get water from the boreholes and the water sometimes is full of mud.
There is water across the road, but crossing the road is not safe, especially
for the children.
2.9.12 Magau Community
There is a shortage of water, and it is difficult for learners to wash to
go to school.
Communities have to pay for water.
They were promised to get water from Nandoni Dam, but this is not forthcoming.
There is a problem of illegal connections, which cause over spillage of water.
The very little water they receive, is misused by spillage (children).
2.9.13 Springfield – Blouberg Local Municipality
Springfield Community
The village has water but the problem is that the water is salty.
3. NORTH WEST PROVINCE
3.1. OVERVIEW OF THE PROGRESS ON DELIVERY OF WATER AND
SANITATION IN THE NORTH WEST PROVINCE
North West is spatially a medium-size province, covering 116 320 km2,
and home to approximately 3.7million people. The Province is predominantly
rural, with 65.1% of the population living in rural areas and 34.9% in urban
areas. However, the rate of urbanisation is increasing, mostly due to the lack
of employment opportunities in rural areas. Approximately 54% of the surface
area has been transformed by agriculture. The North West Province has a
dualistic agricultural economy, which comprises a well-developed commercial
sector and a predominantly subsistence sector in communal areas. There are
approximately 7,600 commercial farms. The number of small-scale farmers in the
former Bophuthatswana amounts to approximately 147,000. Three major irrigation
schemes are located on the Crocodile, Vaal and Harts Rivers. The Vaal-Harts
Irrigation Scheme covers a total area of about 43,700 hectares with wheat,
maize and groundnuts taking 36%, 23% and 22% respectively of the total
irrigated fields. The Province generates 94% of South Africa’s platinum
production, and produces 46% of South Africa’s granite and 25% of its gold.
Major challenges facing the province are the following:
Low population density and relative inadequate infrastructure, especially in
the remote rural areas.
Inherited enormous backlog in basic service delivery and maintenance.
Predominantly poor population with high levels of illiteracy and dependency
that seriously affect their productivity and ability to compete for jobs.
Significant inequalities between the rich and poor as well as disparities
between urban and rural.
The Province is faced by HIV/Aids as a social and economic challenge.
Available resources are unevenly distributed and offer limited potential for
improved delivery of services and growth.
3.1.1 Project Consolidate
The Project Consolidate programme was initiated in the North West Province in
2005 and 17 of the 21 municipalities were inducted into the programme with a
total allocation of R422 million to fund the development of
infrastructure. Of the total amount
allocated, R409 million was spent within twelve months on a variety of projects
in areas such as water reticulation, sanitation, roads, storm water, solid
waste, electricity and community facilities.
Table 1
|
Bojanala Platinum District Municipality |
Central District Municipality |
Bophirima District Municipality |
Southern District Municipality |
|
Moretele Local Municipality |
Ratlou Local Municipality |
Kagisano Local Municipality |
Ventersdorp Local Municipality |
|
Madibeng Local Municipality |
Tswaing Local Municipality |
Lekwa-Teemane Local Municipality |
Maquassi Hills Local Municipality |
|
Rustenburg Local Municipality |
Mafikeng Local Municipality |
Mamusa Local Municipality |
Matlosana Local Municipality |
|
Moses Kotane Local Municipality |
Ditsobotla Local Municipality |
Greater Taung Local Municipality |
|
|
|
Ramotshere Moiloa Local Municipality |
Molopo Local Municipality |
|
Table 1. Project Consolidate municipalities in the North West Province
Among the interventions made through Project Consolidate was the deployment of
experts from different parts of the country to come and assist municipalities
in the province in areas of administration and general management. Among the
municipalities that benefited from this initiative were Mafikeng, Rustenburg
and Moretele. In addition, experienced retired engineers have been deployed to
each district municipality to help strengthen service delivery and project
management capacity.
Basic Water Supply: Infrastructure
Backlogs
Approximately 0,92 million people receive water below RDP level.
Basic water supply backlog has almost halved in the last ten years from 46% in
1994 to 26% in 2005.
Limited local water resource availability.
Need mostly extension of bulk services infrastructure to serve urban clusters,
which are located relatively far apart.
The demand for higher services levels requires co-funding and upgradeability of
basic services
It is estimated that it will cost approximately R1.013 billion to eradicate the
backlog, with an annual funding not less than R338 million per annum.
There is a need to address the remaining 26% less than 3 years to achieve the
Government’s target of 2008.
Table 2
|
District Municipality |
Population |
Population |
Population Below RDP
(Water) |
1
CENTRAL DM
|
953 672 |
1 034 481 |
312 520 |
|
BOJANALA DM |
1 395 184 |
1 514 488 |
366 300 |
|
BOPHIRIMA DM |
476 666 |
517 056 |
174760 |
|
SOUTHERN DM |
770 258 |
835 525 |
67 544 |
|
Total |
3 596 780 |
3 901550 |
921123 |
Table 2. People receiving water below RDP level.
Basic Sanitation: Infrastructure
Backlogs
Approximately 1,94 million people are below RDP sanitation levels, 70 000 with
bucket system (2% of the population) and 1 872 734 million with unimproved pits
(52% of the population).
The sanitation backlog has only been reduced by 10% in the last 10 years.
It will cost approximately R1.3 billion to eradicate the backlog, with an
annual funding not less than R260 million per annum.
Table 3
|
District Municipality |
Population |
Population |
Population Below RDP
Sanitation |
2
CENTRAL DM
|
953 672 |
1 034 481 |
566 663 |
|
BOJANALA DM |
1 395 184 |
1 514 488 |
844 089 |
|
BOPHIRIMA DM |
476 666 |
517 056 |
334 343 |
|
SOUTHERN DM |
770 258 |
835 525 |
197 639 |
|
Total |
3 596 780 |
3 901550 |
1 942 734 |
Table 3. People receiving sanitation services below RDP level.
3.2. Overview of the site visit to Lebohang Gweriri informal settlement
The leader of the
delegation requested a visit to one settlement near Mafikeng to establish the
progress made in providing water and sanitation to the rural area in the
surrounding. An impromptu visit was made to Lebohang
Gweriri, an eight year old informal settlement near Rooigrond Prison. The
community comprises of more than 250 households who are mainly evicted farm
dwellers and most of the adult population is unemployed. The community does not
have planned infrastructure and have very minimal access to basic
services.
Information received from a local Ward Councillor indicated that the settlement
has been included in the current Integrated Development Plan of the
municipality. However, throughout its existence settlement has not been
serviced because of monetary constraints.
The community purchase water from an adjacent landowner and there is sporadic
supply of water from water tanks provided by the municipality. The source of
water is more than 3 kilometres from the settlement. A borehole has been
drilled but DWAF was concerned that the planning in relation to the drilling
was not properly done. There are no toilets and DWAF was concerned that the
drilled hole was very close to the pit toilets. The distance was less than 15
meters and DWAF indicated that the distances could result in ground water
pollution. Department of Provincial and Local Government represented in the
delegation and they seemed to have no idea on the development in the area.
3.2.1 Findings and Issues raised
The community have very limited access to portable water and they often
purchase water from a nearby landowner. Those who cannot afford to buy water,
collect their water from a community borehole/windmill, which is located
approximately 3 kilometres away from the community.
One the challenges related to access to water is that the two sources of water
are located at a considerable distance and outside the community. This is a problem for women and girls as it
increases the risk of being assaulted as well as increases the burden of
fetching water.
A new borehole was recently drilled by the municipality and not yet
operational. However, the delegation discovered that this location of the new
borehole was against regulations. The borehole is located less than 15 meters
away from several pit latrines, and that increases that risk contamination.
For sanitation, the community depends on self-made dry pit latrines. Some of these latrines are located very
close to the new borehole and may contaminate the water source.
The delegation established that there was lack coordination between government
departments and stakeholders, which resulted in the community being misinformed
and projects not properly implemented. For example DWAF was not aware of
challenges in the area.
Other challenges for the community include access to health and education for
children. A mobile clinic often visits the area at least once a month. The visit
usually falls in the middle of the week and the community is not informed in
advance. Children walk a distance of approximately 6 kilometres to attend
school.
3.3 The Site Visit to the Molopo Working For Wetlands Project
Working for Wetlands Programme is one of the Special Public Works Programmes of
South Africa. It is also a multi departmental funded programme housed within
the South African National Biodiversity Institute, a parastatal for Department
of Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEAT). There are four wetland
rehabilitation projects in the Northwest Province:
Borakalalo Wetland Rehabilitation project
Rustengburg Wetland rehabilitation Project
Molopo wetland Rehabilitation project
Heuningvlei Wetland Rehabilitation project.
Rehabilitation measures applied on the wetlands include Gabion structures,
Concrete, Earth, ecologs, earthworks and bioengineering. The delegation visited
the Molopo Working for Wetlands Project, in Mafikeng. The rehabilitation
measure applied at the Molopo Working for Wetlands Project consisted mainly of
gabion structures.
3.3.1 Findings and Issues raised
The Molopo wetland is located in a privately owned land and as a result access
to the wetland area is sometimes restricted.
Access to the wetland was a significant problem in the early stages of
the project, as the farmer did not understand its purpose and value. Effective
communication with the landowner and subsequent realization of the benefit of
the project by the landowner made a significant contribution to addressing this
problem.
The Gabions were constructed by a local broad-based black economic empowered
(BBBEE) company, which employed only local people. The majority of the people
employed were unskilled women.
The project had a total funding of R909166 and employed 24 people.
Some of the women involved in the project were able to use their newly acquired
skills to start their own businesses or find employment.
3.4 Overview of the Role of the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) in
Water and Sanitation projects in the Northwest
The Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) reiterated its commitment to
drive Socio-Economic Reconstruction and Development in the North-West Province
through its support of projects which aim to improve access to basic services,
eradicate poverty, decrease unemployment and address underdevelopment. The DBSA
is visited the Province to renew a Memorandum of Cooperation with the
North-West Provincial Government and the signing of the new Memorandum
coincided with an oversight visit by the Portfolio Committee on Water and
Forestry and the Select Committee on Finance.
To date, DBSA has invested over R2.8-billion to fund more than 30 projects in
the North-West Province. Of the above amount, R282.2-million has been invested
in sanitation and R378.7-million has been spent building and upgrading
roads. DBSA combines its investment
support with technical assistance grants to ensure sustainable development outcomes.
Within the North West, R8.7-million in technical assistance grants has been
provided for more than 60 projects.
Grant funding is also channeled through the DBSA Development Fund to
help build financial, institutional and technical capacity in municipalities
and other government departments. Since 2002, the Development Fund has approved
R22.5-million for 32 projects in the province. The Bank has also been involved
in various knowledge-sharing initiatives both at provincial and municipal
level. For instance, DBSA assisted with the formulation and implementation of
the North West Provincial Growth and Development Strategy (PGDS).
3.4.1 Findings and Issues raised
Recent projects funded by the Development Bank of Southern Africa included the
following projects:
For the eradication of sanitation backlogs (R100 million).
The development of
Magalies Water bulk infrastructure (R149, 5 million).
Taung Flood Disaster Programme (R500 thousand)
Ventersdorp Land Use
Management Scheme (R380 thousand). Merafong Resettlement Programme (R40 million).
Klerksdorp refinancing of capital (R65 million).
The extension of the Ventersdorp municipal office building (R2, 4 million).
Moses Kotane Street Lighting (R5 million).
The DBSA’s Siyenza Manje programme, a project aimed at supporting the
Sanitation Programme included, especially the bucket eradication programme, is
being implemented in the following areas:
Mamusa
Maquassi Hills
Lekwa-Teemane
Tswaing
Ditsobotla
The recently signed memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the Northwest
Provincial government and the DBSA will have a tremendous impact on the
eradication of water and sanitation backlogs in the Northwest Province. One of
the primary key involvement areas for the DBSA is in the area of improving
sanitation services, and communities stand to benefit from the agreement.
3.5. Overview of the Greater Taung flood disaster
The western part of Greater Taung Local Municipality (GTLM) has been in various
level of flood since 20 February 2006. Between January
and June 2006 the area received an average of 1380 mm of rain, which is far
above the average yearly rainfall of 418-mm. The most affected areas were:
Takaneng
Qhoe
Gasebusho
Vaaltein
Letlhapong
Ntswanahatshe
Maganeng
Khaukhwe
Matlapeng
Choseng
Tamasikwa
Loselong
The flood caused substantial damage to infrastructure and disrupted the
socio-economic activities of the area. In summary, approximately, 3 328
households were affected by the flood and more than 700 households continue to live in emergency tents. It is estimated that
1032 houses collapsed or suffered serious structural damages. The cost of
replacing damaged houses is estimated to be R73 million, through the Peoples
Housing Programme. Currently, the North West Department of Housing has approved
the construction of 2000 houses.
The Tamasikwa Bridge was swept away by the flood and will have to be
rebuilt. Moretele, Matlapaneng and
Choseng bridges are not accessible and must be rehabilitated (access
resurfacing). Approximately 60 km of rural road needs to be rehabilitated. The
Reivilo-Lykso road has been seriously damaged and will need to be reconstructed
(most of the road was under water). The cost to repairing the road
infrastructure in the Greater Taung Local Municipality is estimated to be less
than R 41 million.
Water supply in the affected villages had been polluted increasing the cases of
diarrhea and other water-borne diseases. Since then, measures have been taken
to educate the local populations how to decontaminate their drinking water.
Water sources in the Vaaltyn, Tamasikwa and Letlhapong areas were found to have
been polluted by E-coli and other coli forms. Sedibeng Water has
introduced measures to provide safe portable water including providing the
service of water tanks in the affected areas. Most water quality problems have
been resolved.
The rural farming areas have been severely affected (approximately 54 horses,
43 cattle, 31 goats and 145 sheep have died). Commercial areas have lost 117
cattle, 24 horses 395 sheep and 17 goats. Animal diseases are wide spread and
foot rot amongst sheep is particularly a problem. The department of Agriculture
incinerated dead carcasses, as a way of avoiding potential health Hazards.
Irrigation pivots along the Harts River were flooded causing millions of Rands
of Damage.
3.5.1 Findings and Issues raised
A plan to relocate communities away from flood prone areas was drafted and
integrated in the spatial development framework (SDF) of the local
municipality. Alternative land has been identified.
Plans are currently
underway to address the reconstruction of roads and bridges and other damaged
infrastructure. Some projects have already begun.
The Greater Taung Local Municipality received 86 beds and 400 blankets as a
donation for those households that were severely affected. The local
municipality has since decided to retain the 86 donated beds. The aim is to
hand them over when beneficiaries receive new houses.
Approximately R 1, million was donated into the GTLM Disaster Fund, including a
R500 000 donation from DBSA. The funds will be used to fund repairs to
infrastructure and provide relief to those families that need follow up relief
in the form of bedding and food.
3.6. Site visit to the Qhoe housing project
The village of Qhoe is one of those that have been severely affected by the
flood. According to a local traditional leader, the community has not recovered
from the damage caused by the flood. Apart from lack of shelter and housing to
most members of the community, access to clean drinking water remains one of
the most significant challenges in the community.
3.6.1 Findings and Issues raised:
The houses that were being built in Qhoe were part of the 2000 flood relief
houses to be built.
The delegation raised concerns that the houses were very small and may not
accommodate an average rural family.
Apart from the size of the houses, the stands that were built were also
too small and may impair future expansions of the houses and the development of
in-the-yard substance farming (i.e. vegetable gardens).
Concerns were raised on issues around the integration of sanitation and water
services in the housing project. The housing project did not address the
problem of access to water for the new prospective occupants nor did it address
the issue of sanitation.
Concerns were also raised about the quality and durability of the houses and
the role of the Department of Housing in the area of quality control. The
delegation observed cracks on some of the drying house foundations and
questioned the durability of the structures.
The Mayor MS Boitumelo Mahlangu indicated that the Province is building the
houses. As a result the municipality is not aware of the service arrangements
being planned for the area.
It became clear that the Peoples Housing Process is not being followed, as the
community was only involved as workers. The Chief also raised concern at the
payment rate of the members engaged in the project.
The manner in which the project was conducted compromised delivery of services
in that it was not aligned to the IDP or WSDP of the municipality.
Disaster Management Committee coordinated from Bophirima District was of great
help to the community in the floods. The information from the Director of
municipality was very sound, and it is clear that this service need support.
The delegation raised a concern that that the area was declared a disaster area
only after the incident of woman that was trapped in the floods and lost a baby
on the way to hospital. DWAF and PDLG need to work to ensure that the processes
of declaring disaster in times of floods and veld fire are more standard and
situation should not be left till crises proportion before communities can be
helped.
3.7 Presentation by the Vaalharts Water User Associations
The Vaalharts Water User Association was established in 2001. The Minister
approved the constitution of the Water User Association and certain powers and
duties in terms of the National Water Act have been delegated to the Vaalharts
Water User Association. The principle function of Vaalharts WUA is to supply
bulk raw water in the most economical way, according to the lawful entitlement
of all water users, within the borders of the operational area of the
Association, with the least possible losses and disruptions. The Association
does not supply purified water to any water user, but supplies raw water to
Water Service Authorities such as municipalities. The Association does not
supply any sanitation infrastructure or services. Irrigation water represents
96. 2% of the total amount of water supplied by the Association, and Industrial
and Household water, 3.8%. This forms the basis of the Association’s income.
3.7.1 Challenges and issues raised
The infrastructure (irrigation canals, storm water drainage canals and
appurtenant structures) is more than 60 years old and enormous amounts of
monies are needed for maintenance and refurbishment.
The infrastructure is well monitored to avoid disruptive failures, and to curb
water losses as far as possible. The fragile financial well being of the Association
is closely linked to the volatile agricultural environment from where its
revenue comes from (96.2% of its water sales).
No major growth is expected within the borders of the Association’s area of
operation, and henceforth growth in revenue will mainly be in raising the water
tariff. This, on the other hand, can only be done if it is affordable to the
water users.
Emerging farmers receive minimal support and assistance, however DWAF indicated
that the subsidy for emerging farmers is available. However this support is
limited due to the fact that the redundant Provincial Department of Agriculture
was not able to offer support.
Farmers also mentioned that the fees they have to pay are high because they
also have to pay TCTA.
3.8. Overview of water and sanitation in the Lekwa-Teemane municipality area
In February 2006, there was an outbreak of cholera in the area and 1273 people
were treated for the illness. The main source of the outbreak was established
to be from polluted water that was originating from the Bloemhof water
purification plant. The water was found to be high in turbidity and also
contained various pollutants. To remedy the situation, Sedibeng Water was
requested to assist the Municipality with monitoring and water quality management
until qualified plant operators for both Bloemhof and Christiana are appointed
next year (2006/7). The involvement of Sedibeng Water has significantly
improved the standard and quality of water purification processes in the
Bloemhof water purification plant.
3.8.1 Challenges and issues raised:
The outbreak was caused by sewage leakage that was flowing into the Vaal River
raw water abstraction point. At the time of the leakage, the raw water
abstraction point was not protected and there was very little quality control
measures undertaken in the Bloemhof water purification plant.
Lack of resources and qualified technicians was cited as some of the most
significant challenges affecting the operation of the Bloemhof water
purification plant.
It was indicated that the Department of Water Affairs, Sedibeng Water and local
government structures have collaborated in the effort of drafting emergency
plans to address the situation in Bloemhof.
A bucket eradication programme is being implemented in the surrounding areas
under the local municipality.
3.9. Presentation on progress on the establishment of Catchment
Management Areas (CMA) and Water User Associations (WUA)
3.9.1. Crocodile/Marico Catchment Management Area
Nine forums were established to support the public participation process.
A coordination and liaison committee was formed.
Business units and theme teams were formed in each forum.
The CMA proposal was completed in October 2002, approved by the Minister in
2004 and gazetted in September 2005.
The Advisory Committee was established in 2006 and the Governing Board will be
in place by the end of March 2007.
The CMA will be functional in 2008.
3.9.2 Upper Vaal CMA
Public participation forums have been established.
The establishment process of the CMA will start in 2007/2008.
The Governing Board will be appointed in 2009/10.
3.9.3 Middle Vaal CMA
The Klerksdorp, Orkney, Stilfontein and hartebeesfontein (KOSH) forum was
established in 2006/07.
The CMA proposal will be submitted in 2007/08 and the Governing Board will
appointed by 2010.
3.9.4 Lower Vaal CMA
The establishment process for this CMA started in 2004 and two reference
groups, Molopo and Vaal/Harts, were formed.
The proposal will be submitted to the Minister in 2008 and the Governing Board
will be appointed in 2009/10.
3.9.5 Progress made on the establishment of WUAs
In the Crocodile/Marico area, 22 irrigation boards were transformed into new
WUAs.
For the Upper Vaal area, 5 irrigation boards are in the process of being transformed
into two new WUAs.
In the Middle Vaal area, one WUA has been formed, one irrigation board is the
process of being transformed and one Government Water Scheme (GWS) is also in
the process of being converted into a WUA.
For the Lower Vaal, one irrigation board is in the process of being
disestablished, four WUAs have been established since 2004 and two more WUAs
will be established.
3.9.6 Issues raised:
The delegation enquired about the representation and participation by emerging
farmers in the formation of Water User Associations. The participation of
resource poor farmers, especially women, in the transformation of irrigation
boards and formation of WUAs was emphasized.
The newly established WUAs face various challenges. Most WUAs do not have the
capacity in terms relevant skills and resources to provide adequate services to
their members.
Lack of support from the dysfunctional Provincial Department of Agriculture has
a tremendous negative impact on the functioning of the WUAs.
Lack of participation or involvement by local councilors has resulted, in some
cases, in minimal participation by local communities, especially emerging small
farmers.
3.10. Visit to the Bloemhof water purification plant
The delegation took a guided tour of the Bloemhof Water Purification Plant,
including the Vaal raw water abstraction site. The Bloemhof Water Purification
Plant receives water from the Vaal River through a collection sump in the
river. The capacity of the plant is 13 million litres per day.
3.10.1 Challenges experienced in the plant:
The raw water abstraction point is situated downstream of a sewage pump station
which continuously overflows due to technical problems. The sewage overflows
from the pump station into the Vaal River and into the abstraction point. As a
solution, the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry and other stakeholders
have developed an action plan to address the problem.
3.11 Overview of water and sanitation in the Bojanala Platinum District
Municipality
The total estimated population of the Bojanala Platinum
District Municipality is approximately 1 185 329 million people consisting
of 333 740 households. This implies an average household size of approximately
3.7 people per household. The largest
number of households within the district resides in areas classified as dense
rural settlements (112 769) and rural villages (94 634).
The total number of households
residing in urban settlements is approximately 84 000.
The population growth in the rural areas is estimated at 1.01 % and in
the urban areas as 1.64 %.
Approximately 68% of these residential consumers receive water above the
minimum RDP standards and 32% below.
Nearly 90% of all residential consumers units in the urban areas within
the District receive water services at minimum RDP standards.
The proportion of consumer units receiving water below RDP standards
varies between 38.6% in the case of rural villages, 42.9% in dense rural
settlements to as high as 58.9% in scattered settlements.
Table 4
|
Municipality |
No. of households below RDP |
% Households
below RDP |
|
Moretele |
20 838 |
50 % |
|
Madibeng |
28 547 |
32 % |
|
Rustenburg |
33 081 |
28 % |
|
Kgetleng
Rivier |
1 981 |
20 % |
|
Moses Kotane |
21 967 |
36 % |
Table 4. Households receiving water
below minimum RDP Standards
Table 5
|
Municipality |
No. of
households below RDP |
% Households
below RDP |
|
Moretele |
37 388 |
87 % |
|
Madibeng |
62 392 |
68 % |
|
Rustenburg |
53 346 |
68 % |
|
Kgetleng
Rivier |
3 465 |
45 % |
|
Moses Kotane |
42 649 |
69 % |
Table 5. Households with sanitation
below minimum RDP Standards
Approximately 61% of
residents receive sanitation at levels below the minimum RDP standards Only 24% residents in the district have got access to a sanitation
system which discharge to a water treatment works. In the urban areas 84 % of
residents have access to sanitation facilities above RDP standards.
All five local municipalities in the
District are authorised Water Services Authority (WSA):
Moretele Local Municipality receives its bulk water
from Tshwane Metropolitan Council.
Madibeng Local Municipality receives its bulk water from Rand Water.
Rustenburg Local Municipality receives bulk of its bulk water from
Magalies Water and Rand Water.
Moses Kotane Local Municipality receives its bulk water from Magalies
and Botshelo Water.
Kgetlengrivier Local Municipality has its own bulk supply (dam).
3.12 Presentation on the Rustenburg Water Services trust
The rapid growth in and around
Rustenburg, in the North West province, mainly caused by increased mining
activities, has led to the sewage-purification works becoming overloaded. Approximately 40%
of households in the municipal are have below RDP level sanitation, with most
of these households using conventional pit-latrines. Rustenburg local municipality appointed the Mati ya
Vanhu Consortium, comprising Bigen Africa, ABSA bank and Magalies Water, as its
partners to solve the problem by refurbishing and upgrading the existing
sewage-treatment works from 22 Ml/day to 24 Ml/day and the upgrading and
refurbishing of the Bospoort water-purification works to allow it to cope
reliably with the water quality of the dam.
The three-phased sewage-treatment portion of the project involves the building
of a new 15 Ml/day activated sludge unit, designed for full biological nutrient
removal in phase one and completion is scheduled for May 2006. Upgrading of the
existing 10 Ml/day activated-sludge units to treat 15 ml/day, also with full
biological nutrient removal, will be completed by November 2006. Phase three,
which will be completed by July 2007, involves the refurbishment of the
existing 12 Ml/day biological filter plant to regain full functionality. The
sludge management of the plant will also receive attention. The refurbished
water-purification works at Bospoort will be able to accommodate and treat the
eutrophic water in the Bospoort dam. The existing sedi-mentation tanks will be
preceded by a new dissolved-air flotation process, sedimentation tanks will be
changed from gravity tanks to sludge blanket settling tanks.
The Rustenburg local municipality did not have the financial means to fund the
upgrade, and therefore the consortium proposed the establishment of a business
unit, the Rustenburg Water Services Trust, to implement the refurbishments. The
legal status of the trust is that of a municipal business entity and funding
was obtained from the ABSA bank. The R280 million debt, over 18 years, is
serviced by selling effluent to the mines as process water, selling potable
water from the Bospoort water-purification works to the municipality at current
Rand Water tariffs and charging the municipality a tariff for sewage treatment.
The combined income stream is sufficient to service all of the trust’s debt as
well as its operational and maintenance requirements and any surplus funds will
be allocated to the municipality to expand the water services.
Magalies Water, as a third partner of the team, will be responsible for the
operation and maintenance of all facilities and it will also take over the existing
municipal water laboratory from the Rustenburg local municipality and
incorporate it into its larger operation centralised at the Vaalkop
water-purification plant. The project will bring a number of advantages to the
Rustenburg area, and the mines especially will benefit from a reliable supply
of industrial water.
3.12.1 Concerns raised by the delegation:
While the delegation applauded the formation of the trust, concerns were raised
about the long-term affordability of water by poor communities, as there is no
guarantee that the trust will continue, in the long-term, to provide water at
affordable rates.
Concerns were also raised about the impact that the Trust might have on
borrowing capacity of the Municipality.
Water loss due to leakage remains a problem for the Rustenburg Local
Municipality; however plans are underway to remedy the situation.
3.13 Presentation on the Control Veld
and Forest fires
The objective of the National Veld and
Forest Fire Act (101 of 1998) is to prevent wild veld and forest fires. The Act
puts the responsibility of fighting fires on landowners. The Act is implemented
attentively to other related Acts such as the Disaster Management Act (57 of
2002) and the Fire Brigade Act (99 of 1987), which are administered by the
Department of Provincial and Local Government.
A Fire Protection Association (FPA) is a voluntary organization formed
by landowners and a local municipality for the purpose of fighting veld and
forest fires. All governments departments managing state land within the
boundaries of a Fire Protection Association should also be members. A Fire Protection Association
has to be registered for a year before it is required to submit an annual
report and its effectiveness evaluated.
Three Fire Protection Association have recently finished their first one-year
circle and will be assessed on the 21 and 22 August 2006, and they are:
Kgetleng River Fire Protection Association,
Moses Kotane Fire Protection Association
Potchestroom Fire Protection Association,
A training plan for Fire Protection Associations the 2006\7 financial year has
been developed and is ready for implementation.
3.13.1 Challenges experienced:
Staff Shortages in the Department (DWAF) to deal with FPAs.
No dedicated officials to implement and ensure compliance.
Structural problems within FPAs.
Information and Knowledge management
Resistance by land–owners to form FPAs
Exclusion of some land-owners
Fires incidents not reported
Funding of FPAs
Institutional arrangement of FPAs
3.14 Site Visit To Magalies Water
Purification Plant
The delegation took a guided tour of the automated Magalies Water Purification
Plant. Various mechanical and technical
improvements were made to enhance the performance of the plant.
3.14.1 Issues raised by the delegation:
The delegation noted that the plant was operated by a single person and was not
labour intensive. The automation of the Plant has resulted in few people being
employed in the Plant.
In the view of the shortage of technical skills in the area of hydrology, the
Plant presents an opportunity for skills development and learnerships,
especially for the youth.
3.15 Overview of Water and Sanitation in Madibeng Municipality
The Madibeng are receives water from the Brits Water Purification Plant and the
Haartebeesport Water Purification Works. The quality of water is tested every
month at the Magalies Water laboratory. There are four sewage treatment plants
in the area:
Brits water treatment plant (capacity of 8 million litres, it is being upgraded
to 16 million litres).
Mothotlung (capacity of 2.4 million litres).
Letlhabile (capacity of 4 million litres).
Rietfontein (capacity of 1.8 million litres).
Urban residential areas in Madibeng have a level three access to water
services. However, most households in the rural areas face challenges with
regard to access to water and sanitation services. Currently, the municipality
has undertaken a project to supply water to 10 000 and 3200 households in
Mmakau and Bapong respectively. Approximately 20 232 households receive water
below RDP level. The number of households using the bucket system is estimated
at 20 000.
3.15.1 Challenges
The current Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG) is not sufficient to address
the current backlogs in water and sanitation.
The Brits Water Purification Plant needs to be upgraded to cater for the
growing water demand in the Madibeng area.
3.16 Overview of Hartbeespoort Dam Pollution
The Hartbeespoort Dam is the oldest Government
Irrigation Scheme in South Africa. The dam has a catchment of 4112 km², which
is drained by the Crocodile River and its tributaries, the most important of
which are the Jukskei, Hennops and the Magalies Rivers. With a mean annual rainfall of 685mm, the
initial runoff to the dam was estimated at 163 million m³. Since 2000, this
volume has already doubled due to the development in the catchment, which
resulted in increased run-off and return-flows from wastewater treatment
plants. The shoreline of the dam when is full is approximately 56 km long and
the surface area 2 062 ha. The average
loss by evaporation is 25 million m³ (25 000 Ml) per annum. Two main irrigation canals the North and
East (30 km and 48 km respectively) and West (56 km) both have capacities of
8.5 m³/s. The total length of branch
canals is 532 km, which serve a farming community of 14 665 ha (12 952 ha lined
furrows & 1 713 old furrows). Recently mining activities are also supplied
with industrial water
The operation and maintenance of the irrigation system to address algal growth
in the channels is extremely costly and not very effective. Chemical dosing
with sulphuric acid and copper sulphate and biological control with Chinese
carp are also in use. However, the algae are mostly removed mechanically, which
is very labor intensive. Due to the age of the scheme, the maintenance cost is
also extremely high, and the loss in the system is as high as 40%. Due to rapid development upstream of the dam
(i.e. Johannesburg, Ekurhuleni and Tshwane Metro) the volume of water, which
also adds to the increasing load of pollution that reaches the dam, have
dramatically increased. The trend will most likely continue in future as the
urban areas are expected to grow. In the presence of other environmental
factors such as low rainfall and warm windless weather conditions, excessive
growth of algae, such as the potentially toxic blue-green algae, and waterweeds
(hyacinth) occurs. Apart from appearance, unpleasant odors and taste in
domestic water also occur, with associated toxicity.
Madibeng Local Authority is a Water Services
Authority that purifies water from the dam for domestic supply to communities
around the dam, Brits and further north. However, to sustain the development
around the dam, expensive water from Rand Water will in future be imported into
this area. A pipeline is presently under construction for this purpose.
3.17 Site Visit to the Brits Water Purification Plant
The delegation took a guided tour of the Brits Water Purification Plant. The
issue of the Plant’s aged infrastructure was raised by officials as it impedes
the effective operation and performance of the purification plant.
Issues raised:
Most of the water purification and sewage treatment plants in the area have
reached their capacity. The Madibeng Municipality is struggling to raise funds
to maintain these water and sanitation works.
It was noted that water from the Hartebeespoort Dam is costly to purify due to
the extreme level of pollution in the water.
The delegation highlighted the need for the municipality to speedily deliver
basic services to the poor, especially those in the rural areas.
CHALLENGES
Transfer agreements, transfer of assets, staff and schemes in all provinces
need to be monitored to effect completion. Progress on section 78 assessments
and decisions by municipalities on provider options is slow, but needs
assistance from DWAF, Water Boards, etc.
The changes in institutional roles and
responsibilities brought about by completion of the Local Government transformation
process and the Strategic Framework for Water Services must be supported by
effective and efficient institutional support. It is important to ensure that
the institutional reform processes contribute the increase of water services
delivery.
Successful implementation of the
Strategic Framework for Water Services will depend on effective institutional
arrangements; this necessitates institutional reforms to make sure that water
services institutions are best positioned to achieve the vision and goals of
the SFWS. Other aspects that must be addressed include assessment of water
quality and quantity, replacement of old infrastructure and implementation of
free basic water and sanitation policies in all municipalities. The national
government has set targets for clearing the water service backlog, namely,
access to functioning basic water supply infrastructure for all by 2008, access
to basic sanitation facilities for all by 2010 and implementation of the free
basic water policy in all municipalities by 2005.
Much
more investment need to be made with regards to forestry, working for water,
building of dams and other projects as economic developing tools to address the
poverty in the Limpopo Province.
4.5. Water Backlogs
Approximately, 56% of the population
depends on regional or local bulk water distribution systems and close to 0,92
million people are below RDP water level. Water needs represent 26% of the
total population. Basic water supply backlog has almost halved in the last 10
years from 46% in 1994 to 26% in 2005. There is an urgent need to address the
remaining 26% in less than 3 years to achieve government’s target of 2008. The
cost to eradicate basic water backlogs in the province is currently estimated
at R 1.013 billion, with an annual funding of not less than R338 million. There is a growing
concern about the sustainability of water services infrastructure due to
limited considerations of operation and maintenance costs. The Northwest
Province might not meet the 2010 target.
4.6. Sanitation Backlogs
On sanitation, approximately 1,94
million people are below RDP sanitation level and there is still 26 000 with
bucket systems (2% of population). The total number of people using unimproved
pit latrines is estimated to be around 1, 872 734 million with unimproved pits
(52% of population). The total sanitation needs represent 54% of the population
in Northwest. The sanitation backlog has only been reduced by 10% in last 10
years. The cost to eradicate basic sanitation backlogs in the province is
estimated at R1,3 billion (to replace unimproved pits with VIPs), with an
annual funding of not less than R260 million.
Although
considerable strides have been made, the eradication of the bucket system
remains a challenge. A part from lack of funds, the problem is aggravated by
lack of reliable information and statistics on backlogs and the mushrooming of
new informal peri-urban settlements, which makes it difficult for
municipalities to plan and budget effectively.
4.7. Water Resources Management
There are limited surface water sources within the Province, only six major
dams and the province depends on water from the Vaal River. Water resources
will be increasingly stressed in future due to the increased demands from
mining and increased population growth that will result especially in Bojanala
Platinum District Municipality.
4.8
Water Services Transfers
4.8.1 Outstanding water services
transfers need to be monitored. All
necessary issues such as transfer agreements, transfer of assets, staff and
schemes in all provinces need to be monitored.
4.8.2 Progress on section 78
assessments and decisions by municipalities on best provider options is slow,
but needs assistance from DWAF, Water Boards, etc.
The monitoring of compliance with transfer agreements, and the ability to
intervene and provide support, where necessary is complex. However, the relevant stakeholders have to
begin assisting in this process.
A number of challenges have emerged in terms of the funding associated with the
adequacy of DWAF’s budgeted funds, the financial burden on local municipalities
once the conditional grant is consolidated into the equitable share, and
continuing low levels of cost recovery.
Municipal Infrastructure Grant projects (MIG) need to result in efficient,
effective, equitable, economical and sustainable services.
4.9. The Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG) and sanitation targets and
sustainability
Whilst Government has committed itself to eliminating the sanitation backlog by
2010, the programme is not on track in many cases due to a lack of funding,
lack of implementation capacity, and the fact that the speed of delivery
actually decreased during the first year of the MIG. In many municipalities, Project Management Units (PMUs) were
established months after the start of the year, and as a result, the
procurement of service providers was delayed.
There were problems in many municipalities with merging DWAF and Consolidated
Municipal Infrastructure Programme (CMIP) project lists and budgets, and in
several municipalities, budgets for rural sanitation had to be cut due to the
magnitude of prior CMIP budget commitments.
Even once programmes got underway, bureaucracy and mismanagement in
certain municipalities caused payment delays and consequent slowing down of
delivery. Systematic research should be undertaken in all municipalities to
engage with how the processes to address financial issues are addressed,
progress made and solutions that have been utilised.
Government policy on how on-site sanitation should be implemented to involve
households to take ownership of their infrastructure, ensure sustainability and
maximise local economic benefits is laid out in the Strategic Framework for
Water Services (2003), DWAF guidelines and MIG policy documents. However, in practice, approaches not only
vary widely between municipalities and provinces, but also in many
municipalities, knowledge of policy of are almost non-existent. In these cases, technical managers base
their implementation approaches on standard civil engineering models, which are
highly inappropriate for on-site household sanitation. Toilets are being built at costs that exceed
the DWAF guidelines, little or no institutional and social development work is
being done, little or no user education or hygiene education is being provided,
and the local economic benefits are minimal.
The sanitation backlog is still extensive and current rate of eradication is
too slow. Implementation capacity needs to be enhanced. Water backlogs might be affected by
eradication of bucket systems with waterborne sanitation. The replacement of
the bucket system with waterborne sanitation will increase the demand for water
and as a result increase the backlog on water services for the poor. Thus,
water requirements of the remaining backlog and higher levels of sanitation
must be assessed by comprehensive feasibility studies.
A
number of challenges have emerged in terms of the funding associated with the
adequacy of DWAF’s budgeted funds, the financial burden on local municipalities
once the conditional grant is consolidated into the equitable share, and
continuing low levels of cost recovery.
Municipal Infrastructure Grant projects (MIG) need to result in
efficient, effective, equitable, economical and sustainable services.
The MIG, in the first year and half of its inception, reflected sanitation
delivery for rural areas, as being problematic. Whilst Government has committed itself to eliminating the
sanitation backlog by 2010, the programme is not on track in many cases due to
a lack of funding, lack of implementation capacity, and the fact that the speed
of delivery actually decreased during the first year of the MIG. In many municipalities, Project Management
Units (PMUs) were established months after the start of the year, and as a
result, the procurement of service providers was delayed.
Water and Sanitation needs of associated services have to be addressed (e.g.
schools and clinics). Municipalities must improve the water metering, billing
and cost-recovery systems and mechanism to improve the funding capital of basic
services.
The lack of accurate and consistent information on backlogs was identified as
one the key challenges that negatively affects the planning process. Most of the information and statistics on
water and sanitation backlogs are outdated and in some cases
underestimated. There is a need for
accurate and timeously updated information to ensure proper planning and
effective budget allocations. The changes in institutional roles and
responsibilities brought about by completion of the Local Government
transformation process and the Strategic Framework for Water Services must be
supported by effective and efficient institutional support. This may require
changes in the current institutional arrangements for water services delivery
so that they can provide an enabling environment for the delivery of water
services within the new policy and legislative context.
The national government has set targets for clearing the water service backlog,
namely, access to functioning basic water supply infrastructure for all by
2008, access to basic sanitation facilities for all by 2010 and implementation
of the free basic water policy in all municipalities by 2005. It is important
to ensure that the institutional reform processes contribute the increase in
the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of water services delivery. The change in
institutional roles and responsibilities for water services creates major
challenges at national and provincial government levels such as a need for
effective sector regulation, monitoring and evaluation of the sector
performance. At municipality level, the challenges are more complex, for
example, there is a need to strengthen the capacity of municipalities to manage
large infrastructure projects and ensure effective operation and maintenance of
water and sanitation infrastructure.
The
S78 assessment is a relatively short-term process that results in decisions
with long-term consequences. Once the
decision is taken, it must be implemented.
Risks regarding implementation must be kept in mind when assessing
options.
CONCLUSION
The Department of Water affairs and Forestry developed a checklist to provide
both municipalities and DWAF with primary information on water services
authority capacity, and its performance against legislative requirements. The focus is on the following WSA functional
areas: policies and by-laws, planning,
reporting, infrastructure, finance, health and environment and regulating water
services provision.
The Water Services Act gives DWAF the mandate to monitor the performance of all
water services institutions to ensure compliance with all applicable norms and
standards, and to promote improved sector performance.
It is important for water service authorities to ensure proper integration and
alignment between their WSDPs and IDPs, in order to overcome the many
challenges with regard to planning and management.
As with most areas of service delivery, there have been successes and examples
of good practice in some municipalities.
However, the overall view gained on this oversight visit, is one of
slower than expected delivery. This is coupled with implementation approaches
that frequently do not maximise job creation and skills development opportunities
for beneficiary communities. The result of current practices is unsustainable
services.
The committee resolved to raise the
concerns of the communities with the district and local municipalities and
discuss it further in Parliament.
6 RECOMMENDATIONS
It is against the above information that detailed recommendations will be
provided.
6.1 Whilst
government has made strides in beginning to deliver water resources and
infrastructure thereof, a major challenge exist still around equal access to water. Thus a concerted intervention is required
led by DWAF to assist municipalities to ensure that communities in particular,
gain access to clean drinking potable water using the relevant finances that
have been approved, expediting reticulation processes where resources have been
exhausted, providing skilled human resources to municipalities. To also apply
the water reallocation process where communities are without clean drinking
water. To also assist municipalities to spend monies allocated for drought
relief where access to no water occurs.
In many municipalities, sanitation programmes are being run in accordance with
government policy, with great success.
It is therefore recommended that in order to appoint sanitation
programme implementers, unit-based rates tenders for project management
services, not traditional engineering consultants’ tenders are required.
Process should be seen as an opportunity to strengthen a sound working and
cooperative relationship in supporting the development of good governance in
the water services sector. This
compliance checklist, if captured correctly, could be used as a powerful tool
to indicate areas that need urgent attention by the municipality, DWAF and
other sector players. Support and
intervention strategies could be devised to look at implications of
non-compliance and impact on service delivery.
A study to provide support on enhancement of WSDPs and implementation of
section 78 of the Municipal Systems Act should be undertaken in all provinces.
Involvement
of communities in water, sanitation and forestry is a requirement of the
National Water Act and Forestry Act. To this end communities should be involved
so as to impart their indigenous knowledge on water, sanitation and forestry.
If not done, community development workers need to be trained on water and
forestry so as to empower communities, allow them to take ownership and bring
an end to vandalism of water resources and to monitor and attend to water
quality issues, services etc.
Feasibility studies must address all sustainability aspects, including
operational financing, viability, operating capacity, skills audits, customer
affordability, cost-recovery strategies, maintenance plans, etc.
Successful implementation of the
Strategic Framework for Water Services will depend on effective institutional
arrangements; this necessitates institutional reforms to make sure that water
services institutions are best positioned to achieve the vision and goals of
the SFWS. Other aspects that must be addressed include assessment of water
quality and quantity, replacement of old infrastructure and implementation of
free basic water and sanitation policies in all municipalities.
Municipalities are making key decisions about service provision arrangements in
keeping with Section 78 of the Municipal Systems Act. The decisions made through the process have far reaching
implications for effective, efficient, sustainable, affordable water services.
It is important that the knowledge gained from municipal experience is
documented and shared so that WSAs can learn from each other, replicate good
practice and avoid making similar errors.
An assessment of the state of WSDPs and IDPs in the country should be
undertaken, and to enable municipalities to show what they have achieved, and
point out what is frustrating their actions in the intergovernmental system.
This needs to be an ongoing process.
Proper integration and alignment of Water Service Authorities’ WSDPs and IDPs,
in order to overcome the many challenges with regard to planning and
management. A study to provide support on enhancement of WSDPs and
implementation of section 78 of the Municipal Systems Act should be undertaken
in all provinces, as undertaken in the Western Cape in 2004.
An urgent operation and maintenance process should be initiated where schemes,
boreholes and other relevant resources that are inoperable are prohibiting
communities to gain access to water.
DWAF to provide speedier assistance towards municipalities in overcoming water
quality challenges that prohibit all to gain access to clean, safe drinking
water including those caused by sanitation through VIP’s.
DWAF to obtain certainty from the Department of Environment and Tourism about
bringing the delay of the construction of the Asgisa project, the De Hoop Dam to a close so as to allow further
augmentatation to much needed access to water for various uses.
DWAF together with SALGA to engage with the Department of Public Works in
handing over the water scheme to the relevant Water Service Authority in
Mopani. Also DWAF to finalise the sec 78 application of the Mopani
Municipality.
DWAF and relevant municipality to engage further with the authorities of the
Kruger National Park to bring consensus on all the water related issues,
forestry and working for water programmes; as well as investigating whether any
attention needs to be given to the neighbouring areas with regards to any
access in an equitable manner of water.
A provincial strategy supported by DWAF, SALGA, municipalities and the
Provincial legislature to overcome the vandalism of water resources and
infrastructure by communities.
Waterboards be more involved in ensuring that service delivery obligations are
met through providing skills, financial support and an intergrated approach
towards government’s objectives of eradicating the backlogs in water
sanitation.
An investigation to be held into the Vhembe District by DWAF supplying water
allegedly only when the Portfolio Committee arrived.
DWAF together with The Department on Mineral and Energy to look into the issue
of sand mining, its licensing and its effects on water resources.
6.20 It
is recommended that the Minister of Water Affairs and Forestry liaise with the
Lebohang Gweriri district and local municipalities to ensure that the new
borehole is speedily relocated.
Ms C C SEPTEMBER, MP
Chairperson: PC on Water Affairs and Forestry
Date: _________________________