Executive Mayor of Merafong Joins President Ramaphosa at Launch of Major Water Purification Infrastructure
- Karen Scheepers
- Aug 11
- 2 min read
On Friday, 8 August 2025, the Executive Mayor of Merafong City Local Municipality joined President Cyril Ramaphosa in Vereeniging for the official launch of the new Station 5A Water Purification Plant at Rand Water’s Zuikerbosch facility, a landmark event reinforcing South Africa’s commitment to water security.
Event Overview & Strategic Context
The Zuikerbosch Water Treatment Works System, regarded as Africa’s largest state-of-the-art water purification plant, stands at the heart of Rand Water’s long-term infrastructure strategy. The launch of Station 5A is aligned with President Ramaphosa’s 2025 State of the Nation Address, which emphasized taking decisive steps to address the country's water challenges and maintain supply reliability for the industrial heartland.
Technical and Capacity Details
Phase 1 of the project, Station 5A, has been producing 150 million litres per day (ML/d) since August 2023, surpassing its original timeline. Once completed by December 2025, the combined output of Station 5A and the forthcoming Station 5B will reach 600 ML/d, enhancing water access for Gauteng municipalities and surrounding provinces.
Economic & Social Impact
Since project inception in 2019, the Station 5A development has generated 871 job opportunities across various skill levels, supported over 48 SMMEs with contracts valued at approximately R177.7 million, and directed R10.4 million into community development such as schools and early childhood centers.
President’s Address & Infrastructure Significance
Addressing the assembled dignitaries, including national, provincial, and municipal leaders, President Ramaphosa underscored that "clean water is not a luxury; it is a right," calling for vigilance against vandalism and consistent maintenance to ensure infrastructure longevity.
Mayor’s Attendance & Local Relevance
The presence of Merafong’s Executive Mayor signified the municipality’s acknowledgment of the project’s regional impact. While no comments were attributed to her directly, the attendance reinforced local alignment with national infrastructure goals and shared commitment to securing water for future needs.
Looking Forward
The commissioning of Station 5A marks a major milestone in South Africa’s water infrastructure expansion, one that promises to deliver sustainable, high-capacity water supply while generating socio-economic benefits for communities. It reflects coordinated efforts across government spheres to support growth, resilience, and the equitable provision of essential services.
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