Executive Mayor Babalwa Lobishe recently led an oversight visit to the Despatch Wastewater Treatment Works, reinforcing government’s focus on accountable service delivery in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. She was joined by MMC for Infrastructure and Engineering, Cllr Buyelwa Mafaya, as the Metro assessed progress on a R4.8 million upgrade project aimed at improving water and sanitation systems.
The project, aligned with priorities under the 7th Administration, positions infrastructure as a driver of economic growth, environmental protection, and improved living conditions. More than 87% of the budget has already been spent or committed, with over 90% directed toward core water and sanitation upgrades, reflecting targeted use of public funds.
Officials say the Despatch upgrade forms part of a broader provincial effort to strengthen municipal performance, with metros such as the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality also advancing infrastructure-led service delivery. The approach aims to build capable and responsive municipalities focused on community needs.
At the plant, refurbishment work has included upgrades to inlet screens, aerators, pumps, and biological systems. These improvements have pushed compliance levels to about 88%, resulting in better effluent quality, lower environmental risk, and improved public health outcomes.
The visit also highlighted the importance of direct oversight, with leadership verifying progress on site to ensure projects are completed and operating effectively. Authorities say this hands-on approach is key to restoring public confidence and ensuring infrastructure investments deliver real benefits.
Government maintains that continued monitoring and strategic investment will strengthen service delivery across the province, with the goal of providing reliable and dignified basic services to residents.
