Cape Town observed first-ever online public engagement sessions. The series was hosted by the Water and Sanitation Councillor Zahid Badroodien on Sept 03, 2025. The first session outlined major plan for the Budget 2025-26 worth R5.08 billion, to be presented by the directorate.
Along with the budget, water bills of the residents were also explained, as a breakdown of upcoming major capital investments projects. It will begin from upgradation of the wastewater and sewer to the new water programme introduced by the City of Cape Town.
Badroodien said that for year 2025 they have set out Budget of Hope for Cape Town. The first session was conducted on that by getting into details in a transparent way about how the Water and Sanitation budget will improve the infrastructure for a better future.
In reality, there are some big-ticket items where investments are needed to keep the services running, which includes:
- Upgrades to Macassar Wastewater Treatment Works
- Rehabilitation of the Trappies Sewer Network in Gordon’s Bay
- Progressing Desalination and Water Reuse Schemes
What R5.08 Billion Budget will fund in 2025? Some of the largest investments include:
- Wastewater Treatment Works
This inlcudes major expansions at Potsdam, Macassar, Bellville, Wesfleur and Wildevoelvlei and will cost over R1.8 billion.
- Sewer Network Upgrades
The project is worth R1.25 billion and will see significant work in Philippi, Cape Flats, Trappies and Milnerton.
- New Water Programme
Approx. R530.5 million is needed to expand desalination, water reuse and groundwater schemes, which will build resilience for water future of Cape Town.
- Water Pipe Replacement
R259 million will be invested to continue replacing ageing water infrastructure throughout the city.
- Waterways and Flood Prevention
Manenberg Canal and Sir Lowry’s Pass River will also be upgraded considering the funds worth R198 million.
Upcoming Water Webinar Sessions
Next webinar will be observed on Sept 17, 2025 and will see How the underground water will be extracted and recharged. Upcoming series will include a range of topics that will also offer a great platform to the residents where they can get clarification and a better understanding of what is considered as the investment strategy of the City of Cape Town.
Furthermore, Councillor Badroodien highlighted capital injections in upgrading and maintaining the infrastructure of the City of Cape Town, which is not an option, it’s the foundation of an efficient and well-run city.