Reveal progress
Water and Sanitation
The Mzimvubu Water Scheme in will create 5 000 jobs during construction and 3 700 full-time positions. In Limpopo’s Mopani District, 55 villages have access to piped water for the first time, after a water treatment project in the area was completed.
In Nganglizwe, Mthatha, upgrades to water treatment plants in the area has allowed the development of a 6 500unit housing project.
In Richards Bay, Kwa Zulu- Natal, a R300-million desalination plant was built and brought online in seven months, at the height of the drought. It supplies water to 175 000 households. In the past year, the bucket system has been eradicated in 26 900 areas.
Budget in brief
Rural Development and Land Reform: 8-million hectares of arable land has been restored to previous owners.
Sports and Recreation: R690-million budgeted for the healthy lifestyle programme Active Nation, and R225-million for school sports. Department of Energy: Responsible for 90 000 jobs and contributes R300-billion to South Africa’s economy.
Energy
An improved Independent Power Producer programme will give black-owned small businesses access to the energy sector.
The department procured 60 000 heating systems for its solar water heater programme, boosting local manufacturers.
Healthcare for the vulnerable
• Pregnant women will now get eight free antenatal checkups, up from the previous four visits. During these visits the women will be screened for breast and cervical cancer, and treated if necessary. They will also get advice on contraception.
• There is a backlog of 270 000 mainly elderly people waiting for cataract removal operations.
The health department will clear this backlog by with 90 000 sight-restoring operations a year.