Consensus on Goedertrouw Dam proposals

COMMUNITY meetings were held at Mqokolweni and Ncemaneni on Sunday and in eShowe and Melmoth on Monday and Tuesday to discuss the future use of the Goedertrouw Dam.

Communities surrounding the dam understood the importance of the water resource and the need to protect the asset.

They also acknowledged the tourism potential of the dam.

The outcomes of these meetings will be used to develop a resource management and business plan for the dam.

The process is being led by Engineerex (Pty) Ltd on behalf of the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS).

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The following objectives have been set for the resource management and business plan

• To find a lasting solution in dealing with the graves under water

• To investigate fencing the entire dam to control access and ensure the safety of the people and livestock

• To desilt the dam To establish an effective and functional institutional structure inclusive of community representative to manage access and recreational use of the dam

• To ensure public safety by improving security around the dam

• To promote subsistence fishing

• To revive the picnic area and tourism in general

• To conduct public awareness to educate local community members about the importance of having a water resource

• To establish more tourism facilities and recreational activities

• To investigate constructing water ponds near the dam to supply water for irrigation and to promote farming and livestock watering

Uplift the local economy and increase benefit flows to the surrounding communities through community empowerment initiatives.

Interested and affected parties have until the end of February to submit comments, after which the proposed plan will be drawn up for consideration by DWS.

The contact person is Helen Mthimkhulu on 012 9994900 or email helen@engineerex.co.za.