From Source to Tap: Moretele Pipeline Project Delivers Water and Dignity
The Department of Water and Sanitation, in partnership with Magalies Water and Moretele Local Municipality, marked the commemoration of National Water Month (01–31 March) with the official handover of the Moretele South Far West Pipeline.
The programme unfolded in three segments. The first session was a technical briefing, followed by the official launch of the pipeline. This included a ribbon-cutting ceremony at two of the three reservoirs, as well as oversight visits to two households in Swartdamstad—located approximately 100 metres apart—where clean, running water was flowing from household taps.
The third and final session is being held at the Dutch Reformed Church in Motla, where community members are engaging directly with political leadership from Moretele Local Municipality, alongside representatives from Magalies Water and the Department.
This mega infrastructure project comprises three steel tanks, a concrete reservoir, and 2 500 yard connections in Mogogelo and Ratjiepane, extending further benefits to Swartdam, Norokie, Rabusula, Vuma, Moeka, Mmotla, and Mmakaunyane. The initiative brings sustainable relief, restores dignity to residents, and significantly expands access to clean and reliable water at household level.
Speaking during the briefing at the Motla South Far West Pipeline, the Department of Water and Sanitation North West Director and Acting Provincial Head, Ms. Shai, noted that the handover comes after the project had already been commissioned.
“As a department, we chose to officially hand over the project in alignment with National Water Month. This year’s theme, ‘Water’s Role in Gender Equality’, highlights the critical role women play in households. Women ensure that children are bathed, families are fed, and homes are maintained—but without water, none of this is possible. Water is life.”
Moretele Local Municipality Speaker, Cllr Freda Mapela, raised concerns regarding gender inclusivity in the implementation of the project.
“Your report indicates that 45 people were employed, yet only seven of those were women. This raises an important question: how does the Department and Magalies Water plan to empower women? As a Municipality, we need to be engaged upfront on how women will benefit from such projects,” she said.
The Executive Mayor welcomed the successful handover, emphasising the importance of accountability and responsiveness among public representatives.
“Ward Councillors must be equipped to respond to community concerns. Where there are gaps, matters should be escalated through the relevant municipal departments, including Infrastructure Development Services, to ensure accurate feedback from implementing stakeholders such as Magalies Water,” he said.
Following the briefing, the delegation—led by the Mayor, Speaker, Single Whip, EXCO Members, Ward Councillors, MPAC Chairperson, Magalies Water Board Chairperson, and the Acting Provincial Head—conducted an oversight visit to verify that residents are indeed receiving water directly into their yards.
The dignitaries thereafter proceeded to the Dutch Reformed Church in Motla for the third and final session of the programme, where feedback and community engagement is continuing.
Issued by: Communications Unit – Office of the Municipal Manager
Communications Manager: Mr. Mothupi Malebye | 083 737 3493
Communications Officer: Mr. Buti Molopyane | 072 883 1153 / 012 716 1300
