​Communities of KwaJali and Bazini in Umuziwabantu Local Municipality were ecstatic when Ugu District Municipality Mayor Cllr Sizwe Ngcobo officially handed over KwaJali Rising Main project today (Tuesday). The mayor accompanied by Ugu Deputy Mayor Cllr Phumlile Mthiyane, Ugu Speaker Cllr Ntombifikile Gumede as well as leadership from Umuziwabantu municipality said the improvement in access to water has been a life changer for these communities.Hundreds of households in KwaJali community had previously battled with continuous intermittent supply challenges. A dedicated 7km diameter pipe from Weza Plant to KwaJali Resevoir was then constructed and completed through Ugu DM water services.In his remarks, during the official opening, the mayor said as part of the non-revenue water programme, KwaJali pipeline replacement project was selected as a ‘Quick win’ project in need of an urgent intervention with a primary goal of stabilizing water systems and addressing long term water supply issues in the community.“Water from the Weza Treatment Works was not reaching the reservoir thus not supplying the intended beneficiaries due to several offtakes on the existing pipeline, making it challenging to fill up KwaJali reservoir which would in turn feed other supply areas. This necessitated the project to be implemented urgently to ensure adequate and reliable supply to the community,” said Ugu Mayor Cllr Sizwe Ngcobo.The Mayor urged communities to refrain from connecting water illegally as it hinders service delivery. “It remains illegal for communities to connect themselves to our water infrastructure. Not only does this set back our initiative to bring uninterrupted water services to our communities, it deprives many communities of access to their basic right.”The project constructed by a local contractor Mvuyisi Projects, lasted for 06 months where 21 local people were employed.Inkosi Jali welcomed the news, in his remarks, he commended the municipality for the development saying not only will his people have access to clean water, they would be able to maintain a hygienic environment as well in their respective homes.We encourage consumers to become members of our Facebook page by liking the page:”Ugu District Municipality”,to receive continuous and factual update on water and sanitation related matters.ENDSISSUED BY:UGU DISTRICT MUNICIPALITYFor more information and media queries contact:Acting Senior Manager: Mayoralty and CommunicationsMr Mondli NgcoboMondli.Ngcobo@ugu.websitesupport.co.za​