In a momentous stride toward alleviating water challenges in the North West Province, Minister of Water and Sanitation, Senzo Mchunu, expressed unwavering optimism about the progress of the Dinokana Water Supply Intervention Project. The Minister's resounding commitment to fulfilling the objectives of the "Operation Bulela Metsi" Programme was evident during the Sod-turning ceremony for the R106 million project, implemented by Magalies Water in the Ramotshere Moiloa Local Municipality last week Friday.
The Dinokana Water Project, an integral part of "Operation Bulela Metsi" initiative, represents one of 27 water and sanitation projects that were unlocked and reprioritised earlier this year through collaborative efforts led by Mchunu and the North West Provincial Government. Accompanied by Deputy Minister Judith Tshabalala, North West Premier Bushy Maape, Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality Mayor Councillor Khumalo Molefe, Ramotshere Moiloa Local Municipal Mayor Councillor Dinah Pitso, Magalies Water Board Chairperson Dr Lydia Sebego, community veterans, Boora Moiloa Traditional Council, and local chiefs, Mchunu conducted a comprehensive oversight at the construction sites of the water project.
The delegation explored the "sacred" Dinokana eye, a natural spring serving as the water source, and meticulously inspected the 15-kilometre bulk pipeline currently under construction. Mchunu seized the opportunity to reassure the community of Dinokana that "Operation Bulela Metsi" is steadfast in its commitment to providing access to water for every household through standpipes.
He spoke about the importance of being patient, and acknowledged that these projects are being meticulously implemented in phases to ensure their sustainability and effectiveness. "We are happy that there is progress, and ultimately, water will reach everyone who needs to benefit from the project. Refurbishing the pump station is critical so that all the pumps are working optimally to meet the demand of these communities in the four wards," stated Mchunu.
The ongoing Dinokana Water Supply Intervention Project encompasses the refurbishment and upgrade of the Dinokana Rural Water Supply infrastructure. This multifaceted endeavour includes the refurbishment of high-lift pumps, boreholes, spring water pump stations and pipelines. Additionally, it involves the construction of an additional reservoir to provide the much-needed gravity pressure to enhance water distribution. Significant strides have already been made in the project, with over 1000 meters of the bulk pipeline successfully laid.
The refurbishment work is well underway, and the bulk distribution network is also in progress. Mchunu anticipated the completion of the Dinokana Water Supply Intervention Project by September 30, 2024. Addressing the citizens of Ramotshere Moiloa, Mchunu divulged that "Operation Bulela Metsi" encompasses a total of 27 water and sanitation projects currently underway throughout the North West Province.
The Dinokana Water Supply Intervention Project stands out as a beacon of progress within this comprehensive programme, delineated into four distinct phases: Bulk Pipeline Distribution Construction: Encompassing reservoir construction and the refurbishment of existing transmission lines.
Refurbishment of Boreholes: Incorporating additional drilling and equipping of boreholes to augment water accessibility. Reticulation and Standpipe Installation: Implementing within a 200-metre radial distance within the village boundary to facilitate ease of access. Upgrading Pump Station: Facilitating the feeding of both reservoirs by the pump station, with the overarching goal of providing an additional 35 000 residents with standpipes.
Mchunu said the tangible positive impact of the project on local employment, with 17 individuals already benefitting from job opportunities. He projected an even brighter future with the promise of five more job opportunities per ward in the near term. Furthermore, Mchunu urged those with illegal water connections to come forward and report to local authorities for legal connections.
In a bid to safeguard the infrastructure, Mchunu highlighted the detrimental effects of illegal water connections on the pipes. To further fortify this message, he appointed a local youth in Dinokana to spearhead the community's efforts against the vandalism of water infrastructure. The "Operation Bulela Metsi" water and sanitation intervention programme, initiated in July this year, stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts among the three spheres of government, business entities, traditional leaders, and community structures.
The programme represents a holistic approach to address the water and sanitation challenges faced by the province, with short-medium-and long-term interventions meticulously identified and implemented. As the Dinokana Water Supply Intervention Project progresses, Mchunu's vision of ensuring the sustainable provision of water supply and sanitation services throughout the province takes tangible form.
The Minister's resolute commitment and the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders involved serves as a hope for the residents of Dinokana and the broader North West Province.
