To address water challenges in the Eastern Cape, the government is implementing 13 major bulk water supply projects valued at R9.1bn that are scheduled for completion in the next two years. A further 12 projects are in the planning stages to secure long-term water security for the benefit of the people.

These include: The Lady Grey Bulk Water Supply Scheme in Joe Gqabi, Sundwana Dam Water Supply Scheme in Amathole, Mkhemane Dam Regional Bulk Water Supply Scheme in Alfred Nzo, KwaNyathi Bulk Water Supply Scheme in OR Tambo; and Cluster 7 Water Supply Scheme at the Caca Dam in the Chris Hani district.

Premier Oscar Mabuyane said all the infrastructure the government was building, particularly in the eastern side of the province, aligned with the Eastern Seaboard Development, an initiative aimed at creating vibrant local economies for the benefit of communities in rural Pondoland.

The government is also focusing on strengthening investment in the energy, tourism, agriculture and ocean economy sectors. We are glad to see that the IDPs of municipalities in Alfred Nzo and OR Tambo districts are aligned to the Eastern Seaboard Development,” Mabuyane said.