The Avon Water Project has brought much-needed relief to the Ga-Seakamela community in Limpopo, where residents previously struggled with unreliable access to water. The project, implemented by the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS), was officially handed over in the Blouberg Local Municipality within the Capricorn District Municipality, marking a significant step in improving basic service delivery in the area.
Funded through the Water Services Infrastructure Grant at a cost of R22.9 million, the project was designed to address long-standing water supply challenges in the village. Before its completion, the community did not have a dependable source of water, making daily life difficult for residents.
The infrastructure developed under the project includes two newly drilled boreholes and four refurbished ones, with a combined yield of 604.8 kilolitres per day based on a 24-hour pumping cycle. Additional components include five pump houses, a 200-kilolitre elevated steel tank, and pipeline systems consisting of three kilometres of bulk pipeline and one kilometre of galvanised steel pipeline connecting boreholes to storage reservoirs. The project also includes the installation of 100 standpipes and protective fencing around the infrastructure.
As part of the handover programme, officials conducted site visits, including to Selaelo Primary School, where boreholes were installed to improve access to water. The project was led by DWS Limpopo Provincial Head Lucy Kobe, alongside local government leaders and representatives from Lepelle Northern Water.
Local leadership welcomed the project, noting its positive impact on the quality of life for residents. Community members also expressed appreciation during an engagement session held at Ditlou Sports Grounds, highlighting the importance of improved access to clean water.
Kobe emphasised the need for communities to protect the infrastructure from vandalism and to use water responsibly to ensure long-term sustainability. The project forms part of broader activities linked to National Water Month and contributes to the observance of World Water Day on 22 March.
