Water security and dignity enhancement were given a boost with the launch of Phase 1 and 2 of the Leeu Gamka water and sanitation infrastructure upgrade in Newton park and Welgemoed North funded by the Department in conjunction with Prince Albert Local Municipality.

The Leeu Gamka water and sanitation project was funded via the DWS Water Services Infrastructure Grant (WSIG) at a tune of R 66 500 000, and it entails

• Phase 1: the construction of package Plant to increase water supply
• Phase 2: Construction of 1 ML Reservoir for storage of treated water and distribution
• Phase 3: Construction of Sewerage Pump station
• Phase 4: Upgrading of water and sanitation network and reticulation

The benefits to be accrued once all the phases are completed include;

1. Access for all historically disadvantaged households to basic water and sanitation services as required in terms of the Constitution of the Republic.
2. Improved drinking water quality through proper treatment
3. Ensure that drinking water is fit for and safe for human consumption.
4. Additional potable water storage capacity to secure a continuous sustainable supply to all households.
5. Eradication of sub-standard sanitation service and access to a full water borne sanitation system for each household.

Ms Ntombizanele Bila-Mupariwa, the DWS Western Cape Provincial Head, expressed delight with the phase’s launch.

“The project will boost water security for at least the next 30 years,” Bila-Mupariwa said. Additionally, Bila-Mupariwa stated that the project will unlock development for Leeu Gamka.

Linda Jaquate Prince Albert Executive Mayor said her municipality is very grateful for the support of the National Government.

“In reality this means a lot to the residents of Leeu Gamka.”

She further stated that it’s more than funding but grateful for the fact that DWS has faith and confidence in a small municipality.

By accelerating the development of infrastructure, the Leeu Gamka phase 1 (Package Plant) speaks volumes about the Government’s commitment to dignifying communities.

“ Water is Life, Sanitation is Dignity”