LNW issues update on water provision status in the Province

The Lepelle Northern Water [LNW] board chairperson, Dr Nndweleni Mphephu, on Thursday, 16 April, outlined significant strides achieved in improving water infrastructure and strengthening operational performance.

Joined by members of the executive, the status report reflecting LNW’s addressing historical backlogs and growing demand during a media briefing at Fusion Boutique Hotel in Polokwane.

The LNW operates across various district municipalities in Limpopo and also supplies both domestic and industrial customers.

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The LNW water schemes include: Phalaborwa Water Treatment Works [148 ML/day], Politsi Water Supply Scheme [5.5 ML/day], Olifantspoort Water Treatment Works [60 ML/day], Ebenezer Water Supply Scheme [44 ML/day], Doorndraai Water Treatment Works [12ML/day], Flag Boshielo Water Supply Scheme [16 ML/day], Steelpoort Water Supply Scheme [3,5 ML/day], Burgersfort Water Supply Scheme [7,5 ML/day], Nkadimeng Water Supply Scheme [2,5 ML/day], Marble Hall Water Supply Scheme [3 ML/day], Nandoni Water Supply Scheme [60 ML/day], Malekana Water Supply Scheme [12 ML/day], Mooihook Water Supply Scheme [10 ML/day] and Hlogotlou Water Supply Scheme [2 ML/day].

The entity reported strong liquidity, well above industry benchmarks, reflecting a solid ability to meet short-term obligations. Revenue for the 2024/2025 financial year stood at R1.67 billion, compared to R2.04 billion in the previous year.

However, municipal non-payment remains a significant challenge, with the debtors’ book increasing to R1.36 billion from R1.25 billion. Despite this, LNW has improved collections by 11%, reaching R1.037 billion through strengthened enforcement measures and structured payment arrangements.

Dr Mphephu emphasised that the strategic mandate remains focused on restoring confidence in LNW, improving operational efficiency, and expanding the organisation’s capacity to deliver reliable water services.

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Meanwhile, Dr Cornelius Ruiters, provided updates on ongoing operational improvements and infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing service delivery and long-term sustainability.

Ruiters outlined key challenges facing the water board, and mentioned that theft and vandalism of infrastructure are a major concern.

He says the cost of repairing and replacing damaged, or stolen water pipes places an additional financial burden on the water authority.

He further highlighted the magnitude of the problem, saying it costs an estimated R2 million to replace a single vandalised or stolen water pump.

“On targets achieved it gives an indication of the good work being done. On targets not achieved corrective actions have been developed and implemented,” said Ruiters.