eThekwini: The eThekwini Municipality has announced a significant allocation of approximately R10 billion aimed at rebuilding and upgrading its water, electricity, and solid waste management infrastructure. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to ensure these trading services become self-sufficient in the coming years.
According to South African Government News Agency, the allocation includes a R3.33 billion grant announced by Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana. This grant is intended for trading services reforms over the next three years. The performance grant will specifically target upgrades in water and sanitation, electricity, and solid waste management. The initial phase of reforms will focus on water and electricity, beginning in the 2025/26 financial year.
The municipality has implemented a Water and Sanitation Turnaround Strategy (TAS) and developed a comprehensive Business and Investment plan alongside an Institutional and Governance Reform Road map. This plan includes six strategic pillars essential for transforming the eThekwini Water and Sanitation (EWS) Unit into a commercially viable business entity.
Key strategic pillars include establishing a single point of accountability, enhancing management and technical capabilities, and improving governance and financial structures. These efforts are aimed at stabilizing water and sanitation services and meeting customer needs.
The municipality reported that 22% of the goals under the turnaround strategy have already been achieved. As budget priorities align, additional funds will be allocated to EWS TAS programmes to reduce water losses, improve customer service, upgrade water metering, and address intermittent water supply issues.
The Mayor’s Office will continue engaging with stakeholders to ensure the success of the EWS TAS. The R3.33 billion incentive grant will bolster existing resources, accelerate necessary reforms, and attract investments as outlined in the business and investment plans for the next five years.
The municipality expressed appreciation for the indicative budget allocations and plans to align them with its budget for approval in May 2025.