Dispute Over Contractors Temporarily Halts Hewu Water Project

A dispute involving local business structures and Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) has temporarily disrupted construction at the Hewu Rago Regional Water Supply Scheme, a major infrastructure project intended to supply clean water to several villages in the Chris Hani District.

The issue has drawn political attention after ActionSA in the Chris Hani region raised concerns about delays affecting the project, which is located in Mceula Village within the Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality.

The project is designed to deliver potable water to nine villages in the Hewu area, where communities have long struggled with water access challenges.

ActionSA Raises Concerns

In a media statement issued on Thursday, ActionSA said it had conducted an oversight visit to the project site and observed what it described as negative developments affecting construction progress.

The party claimed that construction work had been suspended following disputes involving local contractors and SMMEs. According to the statement, SMMEs involved in the project were reportedly demanding 30% participation in the project, after which the main contractor allegedly withdrew personnel and equipment from the site.

ActionSA warned that such developments could delay the project’s completion and affect communities that have been waiting for improved water infrastructure.

The party also criticised what it described as poor oversight by the Chris Hani District Municipality, arguing that delays in water infrastructure impact residents’ basic right to reliable access to clean water.

Municipality Confirms Disruptions

In response to questions from Komani News, Chris Hani District Municipality spokesperson Dr Sandiso Tyembile confirmed that disruptions had occurred at the project site.

According to the municipality, the situation arose after a local Business Forum halted construction activities while seeking clarification on procedures used in the appointment of local contractors and SMMEs.

“The disruptions on site have been reported, and the municipality has taken action to address the concerns voiced by the Business Forum regarding the procedures followed in the appointment of local contractors and SMMEs,” Tyembile said.

Progress and Completion Timeline

The municipality said the project remained largely on track before the disruption.

“As of the end of February 2026, the project status was almost at the planned progress projection,” Tyembile said.

The planned completion date is currently set for 26 November 2026.

Engagements Underway to Resolve Dispute

According to the municipality, discussions with the Business Forum are ongoing in an effort to resolve the dispute and allow construction work to continue.

Tyembile said a follow-up meeting was held on 26 February between the municipality and the Business Forum to address concerns raised during earlier engagements.

Both parties have reportedly agreed to continue discussions, and another meeting is scheduled where the municipality will provide further updates and outline the way forward regarding local subcontractors and SMMEs.

Message to Residents Waiting for Water

The municipality also sought to reassure residents that the project remains important for improving water supply in the area.

“The project will significantly improve water supply in the affected areas once it is completed,” Tyembile said.

Residents have been urged to remain patient while construction continues and while current water sources are supplemented through water carting.

The municipality also encouraged community members to protect municipal infrastructure from vandalism and theft, warning that such activities can undermine service delivery.

Once completed, the Hewu Rago Regional Water Supply Scheme is expected to improve both the reliability and quality of water supply to communities in the Hewu area.

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