The ministry of water and human settlements has revealed that it is grappling with outstanding issues that have delayed the completion of the P3.6 billion worth Maun Water Supply and Sanitation Phase II project.
While Contract 3 and 4, which form part of the project under Water Utilities Corporation (WUC) are both complete, few challenges have delayed the finalisation of remaining Contract 1 and Contract 2 which were scheduled to be completed end of March.
In an interview, Acting Deputy Director in the Department of Technical Services under the ministry, Reuben Maboko, said the project is nearing completion, but work is continuing to address the remaining challenges.
Maboko said one of the outstanding issues is the installation of fencing and elephant deterrent measures at the evaporation ponds at the Qweexwa Water Treatment Plant.
He said the ponds have not yet been fenced, leaving a high risk of elephants drinking from them. Proposals for fencing and elephant deterrent measures have already been submitted and are awaiting approval by the Ministry’s Accounting Officer before implementation.
Maboko also said the ministry is replacing burnt-out motors at several boreholes after mechanical failures affected their operation.
He added that power supply at the Gweexwa Water Treatment Plant has also been affected by transformer trips. However, backup generators are being used to keep the plant running while the problem is being addressed.
Another outstanding issue is the electrification of one borehole at Chuchubega, which has been delayed by a land matter involving the relevant authorities.
Despite these challenges, Maboko said significant progress has been made on the project.
He said the major systems at the Gweexwa Water Treatment Plant, including the aeration, filtration and reverse osmosis units, have already been installed. Testing and commissioning of most of the facilities are at an advanced stage, while most of the boreholes have been equipped and are already supplying water to the scheme.
Maboko said the remaining works are aimed at ensuring that all parts of the project are fully operational before completion. He noted that once complete, the project will strengthen water supply and sanitation services in Maun and surrounding villages.
The Maun Water Supply and Sanitation Phase II Project includes the development of new boreholes, water treatment facilities, transmission pipelines, storage reservoirs, sewer networks and wastewater treatment infrastructure. The project is expected to improve access to reliable water supply while also strengthening sanitation services for the growing population of Maun and nearby villages.
Maboko said the ministry remains committed to resolving the remaining issues so that the project can be completed and deliver the intended benefits to residents of the North West District.
