By Nkhensani Chauke
Water and Sanitation minister Pemmy Majodina has handed over the completed Kirkwood Bulk Water project, delivering water security to the Kirkwood community through the R35 million infrastructure project.
Majodina formally handed over the water project to the Sundays River Valley Local Municipality on Monday, which is funded through the Department of Water and Sanitation’s Regional Bulk Infrastructure Grant.
The project was implemented by the Amatola Water and it represents a transformative investment in water security for the Kirkwood community and the wider Eastern Cape Province.
The project’s completion features a new 14 million-litre raw water storage dam, increasing to 34.2 million litres from 20.2 litres.
“This expansion also ensures uninterrupted water supply during the annual maintenance shutdown of the Orange-Fish Water Scheme, which previously left the community vulnerable. Additionally, two new 3.0 megalitres reservoirs in Kirkwood Town and Bontrug (Moses Madiba) have been completed, alongside critical pipework upgrades to enhance water distribution and reduce losses,” said Majodina
During her address to the local community, Majodina pledged to accelerate the rollout of bulk water infrastructure projects across the country, extending the focus beyond the Eastern Cape.
“The completion of the Kirkwood Bulk Water Project is more than just infrastructure — it is a clear demonstration of this government’s urgent and unwavering commitment to water security for all,” said Majodina.
“We are now entering a phase where we must — and will — fast-track the delivery of bulk water projects with speed, focus, and accountability. Water is not a luxury; it is a basic right and a catalyst for economic growth, health, and dignity. Communities like Kirkwood deserve nothing less, and we will not rest until every household, farm, and business has reliable access to water.”
Majodina added that the project will directly benefit 3,963 households, serving an estimated population of 16,778.
She also noted the project’s contribution to inclusive economic development during construction, which created 41 local jobs and engaged 10 small businesses — in line with the department’s empowerment and local development goals.
Majodina was joined by Sarah Baartman District Municipality Executive Mayor Deon De Vos and Sundays River Valley Local Municipality Mayor Solethu Lucas to mark the handover of this milestone project.
She called on communities to help safeguard water infrastructure, stressing the importance of shared responsibility in protecting public assets.
“We call on all South Africans to prevent, report, and reject any acts of vandalism or theft that undermine our water systems,” said Majodina.
“These projects belong to the people. When infrastructure is damaged, it’s our communities, our families, and our children who pay the price. Let us work together to protect what we have built.”
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