The Harry Gwala District Municipality has officially completed most phases of the Mnqumeni Water Supply Scheme. This major infrastructure development is now delivering clean and reliable water to 4 364 households, benefiting approximately 17 456 residents across 34 villages.
Although the project is still ongoing, the completion of the project will mark a significant milestone in the municipality’s ongoing commitment to improving access to basic services, restoring dignity to communities, and strengthening rural development.
Implemented in phases between 2019 and May 2026, the Mnqumeni Water Supply Scheme includes the construction of a 7-megalitre-per-day water treatment plant on the Ibisi River, bulk water supply infrastructure, reservoirs, pump stations, and more than 200 kilometers of pipeline network. All phases of the project are now fully completed and operational.
The completed works include: Construction of reservoirs, bulk pipelines, reticulation networks, and communal standpipes serving communities such as Emasameni, Mnqumeni, Ndlovini, Ehlanzeni, Farm A, Deepdale, KwaTshali, Memeka, Makhaleni, Kiliver, and surrounding areas. Extension of reticulation pipelines and installation of more than 250 communal standpipes in villages, including Siphahleni, Mahobe, Matyeni, Mantuzeleni, Kheteni, Nkapa, Mtsazo, Ndindeni, and Mabisane. Development of new abstraction works at the Ibisi River and the upgrade of the water treatment plant from 2ML/day to 7ML/day, including the construction of a new 5ML plant, raw water abstraction tower, pump house, backup generators, and refurbishment of existing reticulation infrastructure in 20 villages.
The total Budget in the project exceeds R180 million, funded through municipal and government infrastructure grants. Several local contractors participated in the implementation of the project, contributing to job creation and economic activity in the district.
Speaking of the progress made in completion of the scheme, Executive Mayor Cllr. Z.D. Nxumalo said the project represents a turning point for many rural communities that have struggled with water shortages for years although the project is still ongoing as other phases are not complete but most of its work is completed.
“The completion of the Mnqumeni Water Supply Scheme is more than an infrastructure achievement — it is a restoration of dignity and hope for our people. Thousands of residents will now have reliable access to clean water closer to their homes. This investment demonstrates our commitment to improving lives, strengthening public health, and building sustainable communities,” said Mayor Nxumalo.
The municipality said the scheme will also strengthen the district’s bulk water supply system, improving resilience against drought conditions and reducing service delivery interruptions in affected communities.
The Harry Gwala District Municipality remains committed to ensuring the long-term sustainability of the infrastructure through ongoing monitoring, maintenance, and operational support by the District Water Services Department.