Local News

CHDM Hands Over Contractors for River Pipeline Projects

Published

9 months ago

October 10, 2025

The Chris Hani District Municipality (CHDM), under the leadership of Executive Mayor Cllr Lusanda Sizani, will officially hand over contractors for the River Crossing Pipeline Projects in the Dr AB Xuma Local Municipality on Monday, 13 October 2025.

The event will take place across three key villages — Chefane (10:00), Ngcacu (13:00), and Thorha (14:00) — marking a significant milestone in the municipality’s continued investment in water infrastructure development and service delivery improvements in rural communities.

Enhancing Access to Clean Water

The River Crossing Pipeline Projects form part of CHDM’s ongoing Integrated Water Services Programme, designed to upgrade, replace, and extend existing pipelines that have become outdated or vulnerable to damage during floods. These projects aim to ensure reliable and safe water supply to communities that have long struggled with interruptions and water shortages, particularly in remote areas.

According to CHDM, the handover of contractors signals the start of implementation work, where contractors will begin constructing and reinforcing river crossings to protect pipelines from erosion and flood-related breakages — one of the leading causes of rural water outages.

“Our priority is to bring lasting solutions to water challenges in our district. This project is about dignity, health, and stability for our people,” said Executive Mayor Cllr Lusanda Sizani. “By investing in sustainable water infrastructure, we are investing in the social and economic well-being of our communities.”

Local Development and Job Creation

Beyond improving water access, CHDM highlighted that the project will contribute to local job creation. Contractors are required to employ local labour and engage small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) from within the communities. This approach not only accelerates project delivery but also ensures that residents benefit economically.

Community members from Chefane, Ngcacu, and Thorha are expected to attend the ceremonies and witness the official signing and handover between the municipality and appointed contractors.

“These projects are not only about pipelines — they are about empowering communities. When water systems work, schools, clinics, and small businesses thrive,” added Cllr Sizani.

A Step Toward Sustainable Infrastructure

The Chris Hani District Municipality continues to align its infrastructure rollouts with national priorities under the District Development Model (DDM), ensuring coordination with local municipalities and sector departments. The River Crossing Pipeline Projects are a key part of CHDM’s 2025 Water Infrastructure Implementation Plan, which focuses on rehabilitation of existing assets and the construction of resilient new systems designed to withstand climate-related pressures.

Through these projects, CHDM reaffirms its commitment to inclusive development, clean water access, and effective service delivery across all corners of the district.