The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has issued a strong warning to local municipalities in the Free State regarding the slow implementation and mismanagement of water and sanitation infrastructure projects funded by the Department.
During the recently held Water Services Infrastructure Development Grant Workshop, the DWS Free State Provincial Head, Dr Tseliso Ntili, cautioned that the Department will no longer tolerate poor performance. Municipalities that fail to deliver on approved projects risk having their funds reallocated to those demonstrating commitment and efficiency in project implementation.
The Department convenes quarterly performance review workshops with local municipalities to assess the progress of projects funded through the Regional Bulk Infrastructure Grant (RBIG) and the Water Services Infrastructure Grant (WSIG). These sessions are designed to track project implementation against submitted business plans and technical reports. Funding is allocated per financial year based on the feasibility and readiness of the projects.
Dr Ntili warned that the Auditor-General will intensify scrutiny on municipalities with delayed or stagnant projects. He emphasised the increasing pressure from Parliament to hold municipal management personally accountable for financial mismanagement, stating that in such cases, the Department will invoke Schedule 6B funding provisions. This means that instead of transferring funds directly to municipalities, DWS will take over project implementation and pay service providers directly on a per-invoice basis.
“I am disappointed and uneasy about some of the reports received from municipalities regarding the progress of their projects. We need clear timeframes and credible updates so that accountability can be enforced.”
Dr. Tseliso Ntili, DWS Free State Provincial Head
“I am disappointed and uneasy about some of the reports received from municipalities regarding the progress of their projects. We need clear timeframes and credible updates so that accountability can be enforced,” said Dr Ntili.
“A turnaround strategy is urgently needed for all delayed projects. Infrastructure meant to benefit communities must be treated with urgency. We cannot allow a laissez-faire approach. All implementing agents, including municipalities and Water Boards, must act decisively against underperforming contractors,” he concluded.
The Department reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that water and sanitation services are delivered efficiently and equitably, and that public funds are used transparently and responsibly.
