Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality has committed approximately R161 million over the next three years to renewing and rehabilitating its ageing sanitation pipeline network, with R52.9 million allocated in the 2026/27 financial year.
The investment aims to reduce the risk of sewage spills and pipe bursts while improving the reliability of sanitation infrastructure across several communities in the Metro.
Areas set to benefit
The pipeline renewal programme will focus on both the northern and southern parts of Nelson Mandela Bay.
In the north, work will take place in Motherwell, Bethelsdorp, Bloemendal, KwaDwesi, KwaMagxaki, Bluewater Bay and Amsterdamhoek.
The southern programme includes Summerstrand, Humewood, South End, the Central Business District (CBD), Walmer, David Stuurman International Airport, Schoenmakerskop and Seaview.
According to the Municipality, these upgrades are intended to address ageing infrastructure while supporting future residential and industrial growth.
Responding to residents’ concerns
Executive Mayor Councillor Babalwa Lobishe said the investment reflects the Municipality’s commitment to improving service delivery and responding to issues raised through the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) process.
“This is a clear demonstration of our resolve to grow this City and place it in a position to provide quality services while ensuring that we are able to accommodate future economic growth,” said Lobishe.
She added that many of the concerns raised by residents and businesses relate to ageing sanitation infrastructure that can no longer adequately serve a growing population and expanding industries.
Part of broader infrastructure upgrades
The Municipality said the pipeline rehabilitation will run alongside ongoing refurbishment and expansion work at its wastewater treatment works.
These upgrades are aimed at ensuring treatment facilities comply with current regulations while increasing capacity to accommodate growing wastewater volumes from areas such as Motherwell, Markman, the Coega Special Economic Zone and the Northern Areas.
Focus on delivery
Member of the Mayoral Committee for Infrastructure and Engineering, Councillor Buyelwa Mafaya, said her office would closely monitor the implementation of the projects to ensure they are completed on time and within budget.
“The issue of timeframes and expenditure is critical. We must work with precision and urgency to ensure that every cent allocated to these projects is spent responsibly and delivers the best possible value for money,” she said.
Why this matters
Sewage spills and ageing sanitation infrastructure have long been among the biggest service delivery concerns in Nelson Mandela Bay. If delivered successfully, the upgrades could help reduce environmental pollution, improve public health and strengthen infrastructure to support future residential and economic growth across the Metro.
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