by SFT | Jul 18, 2024 | St Francis
– Spearheaded by Kouga Municipality, the upgrade of the KwaNomzamo Waste Water Treatment Works (WWTW) in Humansdorp, with a total project cost of R42.36 million, is now progressing at full pace.
This advancement comes after overcoming significant challenges, including adjustments by the National Treasury to the Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG) for the 2023/2024 financial year, which reduced the project grant from R12,227,574.42 to R7,656,356.15 – thus slowing progress.
For the current financial year (2024/2025), a total of R33,545,025 has been allocated through the MIG for the Project Implementation Plan (PiP), ensuring continued progress and completion of this vital infrastructure project.
Increase the treatment capacity
The project aims to not only increase the treatment capacity of the plant, but also to remove impediments hindering the progression of the KwaNomzamo 400 housing project.
“The upgraded waste water treatment works, incorporating state-of-the-art treatment technologies and processes, will significantly facilitate progress in the development pipeline for the KwaNomzamo 400 housing project,” said Kouga Executive Deputy Mayor, Timothy Jantjes.
Upgrade of KwaNomzamo Waste Water
“The enhanced treatment capacity of 2.5Ml/d, coupled with improved efficiency, will bolster essential infrastructure for new residential areas, thereby advancing the municipality’s initiatives to meet housing demands in a rapidly expanding community.”
The scope of work includes, but is not limited to, a new mechanical front rake, new washer compactor, new ultrasonic level detector, new sludge pumps, new gearbox and motors, and the replacement of the clarifiers wire plates and baffle plates.
It, furthermore, includes the refurbishment of the bridge structure and the reinstatement of the sludge dewatering belt press. A new security fence will also be erected.
Improved living conditions
It is estimated that the project will be completed by April 2025.
“The KwaNomzamo Waste Water Treatment Works upgrade is crucial for ensuring sustainable development and improved living conditions for our residents,” said Jantjes.
“It represents a pivotal investment in our community’s future, aligning with our commitment to provide reliable infrastructure and support growth.”
by SFT | Jul 18, 2024 | St Francis
The Kouga Municipality recently became aware of fraud and corruption related to the illegal sale of electricity. It acted immediately and decisively to ensure clean governance and transparency.
Eight officials have been suspended as a result. Two of these officials have since resigned, and an internal and external investigation is currently underway.
The Kouga Municipality Executive Mayor, Cllr Hattingh Bornman, has condemned the alleged acts of fraud and corruption and said that maladministration or any other dishonest activities of a similar nature will not be tolerated.
“Irregular activities will be investigated and followed up by applying all remedies available within the full extent of the law, as well as applying appropriate prevention and detection controls. Suspects who are found guilty will be subjected to formal criminal charges,” said Bornman.
Mayor Bornman also urged residents to report any suspected maladministration to the office of the Municipal Manager and/or Office of the Executive Mayor.
Residents who suspect or have witnessed dishonest activities are urged to report these activities to 071 885 9888. They will remain anonymous, and the process will be treated with the utmost confidentiality. Residents are
furthermore urged to only purchase electricity from accredited vendors or municipal offices.
The Kouga Municipality considers transparency a crucial element of good governance and will continue to inform the public about future developments.
See also: From Rugby Fields To Water Purification – Llewellyn Johnson
by SFT | Jul 18, 2024 | SPAR
Wine Of The Week
Some background on the Muratie Wine Farm
Located in the Knorhoek Valley north of Stellenbosch, Muratie dates back to 1685, when it was granted by Simon van der Stel, then Governor of the Cape of Good Hope, to German soldier Laurens Campher. Through the centuries, Muratie, one of the oldest wine estates in South Africa, has had several other colourful owners and is currently under the stewardship of the Melck family, who are deeply rooted here.
So, each chapter of the Muratie story is a page-turner. From Laurens and Ansela’s epic love story to the mercenary pioneer Martin Melck, famous artist George Paul Canitz and his daughter Alberta Annemarie, Amber the Muse, Aristocratic Lady Alice to Barefoot Ben, Legendary Ronnie Melck and the rain king Mr May, these and many other stories are woven into the very fabric of our farm.
Our guiding philosophy is to preserve this rich history and cultural heritage and share it with wine lovers worldwide. Equally important is building a future legacy of dedication to excellence. Everyone at Muratie is invested in writing the next great chapter.
Wine Of The Week
Muratie Alberta Annemarie Merlot 2018
Alberta Annemarie’s Story
The artist George Paul Canitz was horseback riding with his daughter Alberta Annemarie when they, quite by chance, discovered Muratie. Thus, they both fell instantly in love with the property, which he purchased in due course and when he died, he left it to her, making her one of the first female wine farm owners in the country. A fiercely independent woman, she kept Muratie exactly as her father had left it, and she rode well into her 80s, eventually only stopping, she insisted, ‘because the horse is too old’. Like fine wine, she got better with age, making this Merlot a fitting tribute with its potential to become increasingly characterful over time.
WINEMAKER’S COMMENTS
Redolent of lusciously ripe plums in its youth, this wine has complex layers of dark
cherries, cocoa, cinnamon and toasted hazelnut (from 16 months in French oak
barrels) that come to the fore over time. Also, its appealing sweetness and full-bodied
richness are balanced by fresh acidity and a pinch of mixed herbs. Made in a soft and
approachable style for early enjoyment, it nonetheless has enough backbone and
plenty of length on the smooth finish to suggest that it won’t disappoint those who
wish to cellar it for 5 years.
Weekend Savings At SuperSpar Village Square
This weekend, favourites like Liqui Fruit, Spar Butter, Spar Fish Fingers, Spar Sweetmilk Ch4eese, and Spar Golden Corn Flakes are all on special.
These savings are available up until 21 July, while stocks last.
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