by SFT | Feb 3, 2025 | St Francis
Kouga Local Municipality has secured an R83 million Upgrading of Informal Settlement Programme Grant (UISP Incremental Grant) from the Eastern Cape Department of Human Settlements (ECDHS) to undertake critical bulk infrastructure upgrades across nine settlements in the region.
These upgrades are set to address essential service delivery needs, supporting sustainable development and improving the quality of life for residents.
Kouga Executive Mayor, Hattingh Bornman, expressed his gratitude for the funding for the major bulk infrastructure upgrades describing it as a transformative step forward for the municipality. “This significant investment ensures that our communities have access to essential services such as reliable water supply, effective sanitation, and electricity. These upgrades lay the foundation for further development, creating an environment where all residents can thrive,” he said.
Electrical infrastructure
The grant will fund critical infrastructure projects, including the R22 million Boskloof Secondary Feeders Line and Substation to bolster the electricity network and support growing demand in Humansdorp/KwaNomzamo, as well as a R12 million upgrade of the Ocean View Substation to cater to development in the 80ha settlement of Ocean View.
Sanitation infrastructure
To address sanitation challenges, R11.68 million has been allocated for the construction of a new pump station in Geelhout, along with a rising main to channel wastewater to the KwaNomzamo Wastewater Treatment Works.
Further upgrades include R3.28 million for enhancements to the Kruisfontein Wastewater Treatment Works and a 1.7km outfall sewer with advanced engineering.
In addition, the Apiesdraai Pump Station will undergo a R4.73 million refurbishment, with condition assessments and upgrades planned to meet future demand.
The Thornhill Sewer Treatment Works will also receive R2.64 million to increase its treatment capacity. Ramaphosa Village will benefit from the refurbishment of the existing Sewer Pump Station to the value of R600 000.
Water infrastructure
The water infrastructure projects funded by this grant include a R7.5 million water main from the Humansdorp Waterworks to KwaNomzamo, along Saffrey Street.
In Kruisfontein, R7.8 million will be used for upgrades to the Gill Marcus Reservoir and the installation of feeder lines to Donderhoek and Hopeville.
Thornhill will see the construction of a R5.77 million steel-pressed reservoir with feeder lines from the Summit Water Main, while Ramaphosa Village will benefit from a R5.25 million new reservoir to support current and future needs.
“Through these projects, we are addressing long-standing challenges in our communities,” said Bornman. “This is about ensuring equitable access to services and supporting the future growth of our municipality.”
See also: Kouga invests over R37M to transform gravel roads into tar, allocates over R61M for free basic services to indigent households
by SFT | Feb 3, 2025 | St Francis
Kouga invests over R37M to transform gravel roads into tarred roads across the region.
This project, which includes over R15 million allocated in the 2025/2026 financial year through the Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG), aims to improve accessibility, safety, and quality of life for residents.
“Upgrading gravel roads to tarred roads is not just about improving driving conditions,” said Kouga Executive Mayor, Hattingh Bornman. “It is about connecting our communities and ensuring safer roads for all who live and travel in Kouga,” he said.
The project, which will be rolled out in phases, forms part of the municipality’s broader strategy to invest in sustainable and durable infrastructure.
“Roads are the backbone of our economy and our communities,” said Bornman. “So, when Kouga invests over R37M on tarring roads, we are improving infrastructure while building a future where every corner of Kouga is within reach.”
Kouga Local Municipality has allocated R61,419,118 in its mid-year adjustment budget to provide free basic services to indigent households across the region.
This provision was approved during an Ordinary Council meeting on Wednesday, 29 January 2025, reinforcing the municipality’s commitment to ensuring that all residents have access to essential services, regardless of their financial status.
The allocation includes funding for essential services such as water, sanitation, electricity, and refuse removal.
Specifically, R21,487,061 has been set aside for providing 6 kilolitres of water per household per month, R13,673,095 for sanitation services, R1,989,710 for the provision of 50kWh of electricity per household per month, and R24,269,252 for regular refuse removal services (which includes an Environment Management Fee).
Kouga Executive Mayor, Hattingh Bornman, emphasised the importance of these services in improving the quality of life for indigent households. “Access to basic services is a fundamental right, and this allocation reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting the most vulnerable members of our community.
“No household should be left behind when it comes to access to clean water, sanitation, electricity, and waste removal.”
by SFT | Feb 3, 2025 | St Francis
The Pam Golding Annual, the epic battle between The Bay vs The Links!
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Richard Arderne and Pam Golding Properties for their unwavering support and innovative approach in making this event, which took place last Saturday and Sunday, possible.
Day 1: The Bay Course
On the first day, golfers took on the beautiful 18 holes at The Bay, competing in a Betterball Stableford format with an 85% Handicap Conversion for the morning round. After an exhilarating day on the course St Francis Links took a commanding lead of 1.6 points!
Full story here
The vibe is on the up!
The atmosphere at our club has been lively with the introduction of our “new“ temporary bar located downstairs. This initiative comes during a period of renovations, specifically while we are replacing the roof and upgrading the upstairs area.
Our new bar has now accommodated two large events:
The Pam Golding Annual Prize Giving and the Investec Betterball Medal. Full story here
For our full story on the St Francis Links renovation currently underway, go here –St Francis Links Striving As It Undertakes Renovations.
How to access the Clubhouse during construction
We encourage everyone to come down to enjoy a selection of drinks, catch some sports on the television, and explore our menu offerings. A combination of good company, entertainment, and quality refreshments!
See details here
Brilliant performance by Lynn Slogrove!
The EP & Border Championships were held at Humewood on the 25th and 26th of January, where participants faced challenging gale-force conditions. Read more about Slogrove’s performance here
Golfers, save these 2025 dates
Club Championships – 26 & 27 April 2025
Pam Golding Ladies Open – 17 & 18 May 2025
Ladies Invitational – 07 June 2025
Men’s Invitational – 18 & 19 July 2025
for the full list of upcoming tournaments, please go to the website here
by SFT | Feb 3, 2025 | St Francis
St Francis Links has started an exciting new chapter with extensive changes to their clubhouse, including the replacement of the 2700m2 thatched clubhouse roof.
After a comprehensive due diligence exercise not only for the roof but also to limit further business interruption in the long term and save costs, this project was given the green light. Additionally, there will also be wide-ranging improvements carried out to the interiors of the 18-year-old building, giving it a fresh and modern look.

St Francis Links Striving
The proposed changes have been designed to transform St Francis Links to a more family-orientated community and to accommodate the rapid increase in homes and permanent residents that the Links has experienced post-COVID. The opportunity to improve efficiencies, prepare the building for solar provision, update technology and maximise the revenue-generating spaces have been embraced. The objective is to offer a clubhouse that goes beyond golf.
Food, beverage, golf, and the spa will remain on offer during the renovation period.
The golf course, golf shop, Bard’au Medi-Spa and locker rooms will remain fully operational during the construction period, which is expected to be completed by mid-2025. A temporary bar and offices will be established on the lower level of the clubhouse, and the new Halfway Deli will offer breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Construction commenced in January 2025, when the site was handed over to the appointed contractor. The project forms part of a Links master plan envisioned by the Board to include more family recreation and sports offerings.
20th anniversary
“It is with great excitement that we approach our 20th anniversary, and we look forward to the refurbished clubhouse that will enhance our already excellent estate”, says Jeff Clause, St Francis Links CEO. “The Links is thriving, making this the ideal time to enhance our amenities to reflect the needs of a family-focused community. Plans include expanding the Kids Club and creating versatile, multi-use spaces to better serve our members and visitors alike.”
Come and have a look at the conceptual renderings on the lower deck near the Halfway Deli at the St Francis Links Club House.
Read more: Seal Point Boardriders Club Grom Comp and Surf Lessons A Great Success
by SFT | Feb 3, 2025 | St Francis
Windigo, the new Balance 580, began her journey to the harbour early in the morning last week under a stunning African sky for the Windigo Launch Gallery.
She made her splash effortlessly, with an excited crowd cheering her on. We’re thrilled to welcome the 580 to our family, and soon, Windigo will be ready for her adventures!
Great work from Nexus Yachts/Balance Catamarans
all photos ©Andrea Paarman
See more – JBay Surfer Matt McGillivray at Pipeline – Photo Of The Day
by SFT | Jan 30, 2025 | St Francis
Kouga – Kouga Local Municipality has approved its mid-year adjustment budget for the 2024/25 financial year, amounting to R1.735 billion at an Ordinary Council meeting on Wednesday, 29 January 2025.
The adjustments budget comprises R1.455 billion for the Operating Budget and R279.073 million for the Capital Budget. This reflects a 5.20% decrease in the Operating Budget, amounting to R79.758 million, from the previously approved R1.535 billion. The Capital Budget also decreased by 26.33%, with a reduction of R99.753 million, from the previously approved R378.826 million.
Budget As A Reflection
Kouga Executive Mayor, Hattingh Bornman, said, “While the adjustments reflect reductions, they are necessary to prioritise projects that will have the greatest impact on our communities. This budget is a reflection of our commitment to responsible financial management and the continued improvement of services across Kouga.
Despite the reductions, the Capital Budget includes significant investments in key infrastructure projects. Among these are the electrification of informal settlements, with R3.5 million allocated to Sea Vista and R2 million to Ocean View (Ebumnyameni).
A road resealing project has also been prioritised, with R50 million allocated for the 2024/25 financial year and an additional R150 million planned for 2025/26 through funding from the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA).
Bornman highlighted the municipality’s focus on addressing critical infrastructure needs.
“Projects like the electrification of informal settlements and the road resealing initiative are vital for improving the quality of life in Kouga. These developments are part of our broader vision to create a connected, safe, and sustainable region,” he said.
Kouga approves R1.735 billion
The adjustments budget also includes an additional R83.804 million from the Eastern Cape Department of Human Settlements (ECDHS) for upgrading bulk-link infrastructure under phase 3 of the Urban Settlement Development Grant (UISP Incremental Grant) project. These funds, to be utilised over the 2024/25 and 2025/26 financial years, will support infrastructure upgrades across nine UISP settlements.
“This funding allows us to address long-standing infrastructure challenges while laying the foundation for future growth,” said Bornman. “Our goal is to ensure that every resident of Kouga has access to basic services and the infrastructure they need to thrive.”
The approved adjustments budget demonstrates Kouga Municipality’s ongoing commitment to balancing financial responsibility with community development.
“With this budget, we are building a stronger, more resilient Kouga for everyone who calls it home,” said Bornman.
Read more: Kouga Strengthens Measures To Combat Foot and Mouth Disease
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