Humansdorp – The KwaNomzamo Waste Water Treatment Works (WWTW) in Humansdorp is nearing completion following a comprehensive R49 million upgrade, promising improved sanitation services for more than 2 200 households across several communities.
Originally vandalised in 2018 to such an extent that it became non-operational, the plant is being brought back to life with upgraded capacity, modern systems, and enhanced security – positioning it as a key asset in the municipality’s service delivery pipeline.
Despite the challenges posed by abnormal weather conditions and heavy rainfall – which resulted in construction delays – the project, originally scheduled for completion in May this year, is now expected to be finalised by August 2025.
“We are, however, pleased that completion is now within reach,” said Kouga Executive Mayor, Hattingh Bornman.
The upgrade – originally funded through a Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG) allocation of R42.36 million – saw costs rise to R49.32 million due to additional civil works required. These included extensive refurbishments to vital infrastructure, enhanced security fencing to curb future vandalism, and upgrades to the reactors and clarifiers.
Treatment Capacity
With a treatment capacity of 4 million litres per day, the upgraded facility will service multiple communities, including Boskloof, Panorama, Mat Melville, Humansdorp Central, the Industrial Area, and residential areas such as Polar Park 257 and 553, Bungalows 103, Shukushuma 93, and the Geelhout Transit site.
Scope of Work
The scope of work includes, among others, the installation of secondary settling tank equipment, pump station equipment, chlorine dosing systems, a return activated sludge (RAS) pump station, a chlorine contact tank, and all necessary interconnecting pipework.
Additional components of the project comprise the construction of a new perimeter fence, a new dewatering building, and a new Motor Control Centre (MCC) building complete with a new MCC unit. The scope also covers the refurbishment and structural repairs to the bio-reactor, the restoration of the bridge structure, and the reinstatement of the sludge dewatering belt press.
Outstanding work still to be finalised includes the completion of interconnecting pipework, remaining repairs to the bio-reactor, the installation of chlorination equipment and the horizontal aerator, as well as the final testing and commissioning of the entire plant.
Future Growth
Kouga Executive Mayor, Hattingh Bornman, said, “This facility is much more than a waste water treatment plant – it is a catalyst for growth, health, and sustainable development. It supports the roll-out of the KwaNomzamo 400 housing project and contributes significantly to improving sanitation, hygiene, and quality of life for our residents.
“We are building a future-ready municipality, one project at a time.”
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