Potable water now a reality for wider Jozini area

THE right to potable water is now a reality for more than 10 000 KwaJobe residents in the Jozini Municipality after last week’s launch of phase three of the area’s water upgrades.

For these residents, who last year rioted in the streets in protest over the lack of water, this project was seen as a positive step, and one with a profound implication for the people of Jozini.

The increased production of potable water, assisted by the installation of bulk water and reticulation networks in the area, will ultimately service more than 8 200 households.

Phase one and two of the project were implemented last year at a cost of R25-million, with phase three set to cost the uMkhanyakude District Municipality (UKDM) R29-million.

Together with the benefitting communities, UKDM Mayor Solomon Mkhombo and other high profile dignitaries celebrated the project, the launch of which was held at Sibonokuhle Hall in Jozini.

‘KwaJobe phase three is part of the steps that will finally ensure KwaJobe residents receive water, but more especially, that the Jozini Municipality receives universal coverage through the Jozini/Ingwavuma water project,’ said UKDM spokesperson Mdu Dlamini.

‘The water tankers currently in use in the areas not yet receiving water will continue this service, ensuring no one is ever without this essential service.