In a significant move to address the water issues plaguing the North West Province, Premier Lazarus Kagiso Mokgosi paid a courtesy visit to the Midvaal Water Company NPC in the City of Matlosana Local Municipality. This visit underscored the critical role Midvaal Water plays in ensuring access to clean, drinkable water across the province and beyond.
A Guided Tour of Excellence
Accompanied by Councillor Fikile Mahlophe, the Executive Mayor of the City of Matlosana, the Premier was given an extensive tour of Midvaal Water’s cutting-edge facilities. The visit included a close-up look at the company’s advanced water purification plant and its SANS 241-compliant laboratory. This national standard, SANS 241: 2015, ensures the safety and quality of drinking water—a vital resource for any community.
The Financial Hurdle: Addressing the Elephant in the Room
Following the tour, the Premier and Mayor engaged in an in-depth briefing on Midvaal Water’s history, capabilities, and future plans. However, the discussions soon turned to a pressing issue: the City of Matlosana’s substantial debt to Midvaal Water, which currently exceeds R2 billion. This mounting debt threatens not only the financial stability of Midvaal Water but also its ability to expand water access to underserved areas in the province.
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Premier Mokgosi and Mayor Mahlophe pledged to intensify efforts to resolve the impasse. They committed to ensuring the municipality adheres to its payment arrangement with Midvaal Water. Additionally, Premier Mokgosi expressed his support for ongoing discussions with the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) regarding a potential solution: writing off nearly R1 billion owed by Midvaal Water to DWS in exchange for a similar concession on the City of Matlosana’s debt.
Unlocking Untapped Potential
During the visit, Premier Mokgosi highlighted the significance of Midvaal Water’s spare capacity of 200 megalitres per day. “There is no way residents of this province should go without water when such a valuable resource is available,” he remarked. “Midvaal Water Company has demonstrated its capability to contribute meaningfully to resolving our province’s water challenges.”
To tap into this unused capacity, Premier Mokgosi outlined plans to prioritize access to clean water, starting with the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District. The initiative will then expand to the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati and Ngaka Modiri Molema districts. “We will work with water services authorities, national government, and other stakeholders to turn this vision into reality,” the Premier asserted.
A Renewed Commitment to Payment Discipline
Executive Mayor Fikile Mahlophe echoed the Premier’s sentiments, reiterating the municipality’s commitment to its payment plan. “Failing to honor our obligations jeopardizes not only the future of Midvaal Water but also the well-being of our residents and other water users,” she emphasized. Mayor Mahlophe pledged to ensure that the administration adheres to the agreed terms, safeguarding the essential services provided by Midvaal Water.
A Message of Partnership and Hope
Midvaal Water’s CEO, Mr. Matshedisho David Dikoko, expressed gratitude for the Premier’s visit and support. “We are committed to partnering with the government to address the water challenges our province and country face,” he said. Mr. Dikoko reaffirmed the company’s readiness to utilize its excess water capacity of 200 ML/day to benefit those in need.
“By working together, we can quench the thirst of communities across our province and ensure sustainable access to this essential resource,” he concluded.
Moving Forward
The Premier’s visit to Midvaal Water Company marks a pivotal step towards resolving the water challenges facing the North West Province. With commitments from both political leaders and Midvaal Water, there is renewed hope for sustainable water access and improved quality of life for the province’s residents.
