A delegation from the Portfolio Committee on Co-operative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs has conducted a two-day physical oversight visit in Mpumalanga, focusing on key service delivery projects ahead of the Taking the Legislature to the People (TLP) programme scheduled for March 2026.

The visit included inspections of the Emanzana Water Treatment Works upgrade and housing developments in Fernie A and B villages within the Chief Albert Luthuli Local Municipality.

The Emanzana Water Treatment Works project aims to increase water treatment capacity from 3 megalitres to 5 megalitres, improve water quality, and ensure compliance with national regulatory standards, including SANS 241 and Blue Drop requirements. The project, which began in November 2023, is expected to be completed by the end of October 2026 and will provide a reliable water supply to nearly 40,000 households in Emanzana (Ward 17).

Valued at over R62 million, the project is currently 57% complete, with more than R8 million already spent. The oversight visit allowed the committee to assess progress and make recommendations before the upcoming TLP programme.

Portfolio Committee Chairperson, Dan Nkosi, praised the department and the municipality for the progress made, despite challenges on the ground. He emphasised the importance of setting aside sufficient budget to ensure the project’s completion, noting that many communities remain in urgent need of access to water. Nkosi further stressed that all spheres of government must work together to deliver the project on time.

Ward 17 committee leader, Lenard Mathibela, welcomed the development and called for more projects in Emanzana, saying they play a vital role in addressing unemployment.

The delegation also visited the construction of 200 housing units under the Informal Settlements Upgrading Programme in Silobela, Fernie A and B villages. The housing project, valued at over R25 million, is expected to be completed by the end of the 2025/2026 financial year.

Although the project previously faced challenges, including contractor termination and financial constraints linked to reduced national funding, significant progress has been made. To date, 190 of the 200 housing units have been completed. The committee commended the department for the work done and recommended the prioritisation of budget allocations to prevent delays in contractor payments and ensure timely completion.

The TLP programme is expected to provide a platform for members of the legislature to strengthen oversight, accountability and community engagement, in line with constitutional responsibilitiels.