Clanwilliam: Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation David Mahlobo has praised the advancements on the R8 billion Raising of the Clanwilliam Dam Wall Project, currently in progress in the Cederberg Local Municipality, Western Cape. During a site visit, Mahlobo reviewed construction progress and engaged with contractors and local stakeholders affected by the project.
According to South African Government News Agency, Mahlobo acknowledged the efforts of the project teams for completing several critical phases. These include the emergency construction of the upstream coffer dam at the intake tower, the lower spillway section, and preparatory work for the new dam wall's construction. Progress includes the completed demolition of certain parts of the old dam wall and advanced drilling and grouting of the new wall foundation, with concrete placement reaching 21,998 cubic metres.
The excavations of the coffer dam foundation resumed in February following delays caused by high rainfall last year. The construction of the lower spillway was concluded in May. Upcoming milestones include the installation of spillway pipes and gallery construction starting in November 2026. The tunnel and intake tower excavation should finish by June 2027, with the entire project slated for completion in 2028.
Mahlobo expressed satisfaction with the project's progress and noted the involvement of experienced teams, mostly composed of South African entities. He emphasized the importance of balancing service delivery with agricultural and domestic water supply needs.
In discussions with various stakeholders, including the Clanwilliam Water Users Association and the Lower Olifants River Water User Association, Mahlobo assured them that the project is on schedule. He urged stakeholders to collaborate with the department until completion, highlighting the need for cooperative governance and coordination with the provincial government to achieve project targets.
The Raising of the Clanwilliam Dam Wall Project is a key government water infrastructure investment aimed at enhancing long-term water security in the Western Cape's West Coast region. Once completed, the dam wall will be raised by 13 metres, increasing the dam's storage capacity by approximately 82 million cubic metres. This additional storage will enhance water supply reliability for irrigation, domestic use, and regional economic development.
The project is anticipated to benefit local farmers, households, and historically disadvantaged farmers, while also improving compliance with dam safety standards during high flood conditions and maintaining the ecological requirements of the Oliphant River.