(18–19 February 2026)
The District Infrastructure Forum (DIF) conducted an oversight visit on 18–19 February 2026 to two key water infrastructure projects in the Namakwa District — the Pella Bulk Water Infrastructure Reticulation Network Project and the Pofadder Water Treatment Plant and Pump Station. The Pella project is administered through the Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG) programme and Pofadder WTW under the Department of CoGHSTA-Human Settlements, as part of government’s commitment to strengthening basic service delivery and sustainable infrastructure development in municipalities.
The Pella Bulk Water Infrastructure Reticulation Network Project, implemented within the Khai-Ma Local Municipality, aims to improve water security, reliability, and equitable distribution for the Pella community. The project responds to longstanding infrastructure limitations where the previous reservoir system had insufficient capacity and could not adequately supply all areas, particularly households located on elevated terrain and newer residential extensions. The configuration of the old network also made management and pressure control difficult, resulting in uneven water distribution.
To address these challenges, a ring feed system was introduced to ensure consistent water supply across the town. The newly constructed bulk reservoir feeds into this system, enabling improved distribution to all households. The larger reservoir was developed in line with a infrastructure planning outlook to meet both current and future demand. The existing reservoir will remain operational as an augmentation reservoir, strengthening system resilience and ensuring backup supply during peak demand or disruptions.
In addition, the project includes the construction of new fenced pressure reducing control room with 200mm connection points for the existing and new reservoir in Pella. The pressure reducing room will connect to the existing 500mm pipeline running from the orange river to the mine with a take-off point for the Pella community. The pipeline is operated and maintained by Vaal Central.
The DIF also visited the Pofadder Water Treatment Plant and Pump Station, implemented by Khai-Ma Local Municipality, where officials confirmed that all project phases have been successfully completed and will be commissioned and formally handed over for full municipal operation. The upgraded facility strengthens water purification processes and improves distribution reliability for the Pofadder community.
The project addressed persistent challenges within the water network, including frequent pipe bursts caused by pressure fluctuations and ageing infrastructure. The installation of extension joints allows pipelines to expand and contract safely, reducing stress, minimising breakages, and extending infrastructure lifespan. Previous pump failures were linked to pressure imbalances, electrical interruptions, airlocks, and worn mechanical components. Upgrades introduced improved pump control systems, enhanced pressure management, and operational improvements to ensure more efficient and reliable performance.
Despite these infrastructure improvements, vandalism remains a serious threat to sustainable water supply, often resulting in service interruptions and increased repair costs. Communities are encouraged to work alongside municipalities by protecting public assets and reporting acts of vandalism to safeguard critical infrastructure investments.
The DIF oversight visits reaffirm the importance of monitoring grant funded projects to ensure accountability, value for public funds, and sustainable service delivery outcomes. These projects demonstrate the positive impact of coordinated collaboration between CoGHSTA, municipalities, and sector stakeholders in strengthening water infrastructure and improving the quality of life for communities across the Namakwa District.
