Vereeniging – President Cyril Ramaphosa officially inaugurated Station 5A at Rand Water’s Zuikerbosch Plant yesterday, marking a major milestone in bolstering water security for Gauteng and surrounding provinces. The newly launched facility, described as the largest and most advanced water purification plant in Africa, will add 600 million liters of clean water daily to Rand Water’s supply network.
In his address, Ramaphosa praised the project as a testament to South Africa’s capacity to deliver complex, high-impact infrastructure. He highlighted the plant’s role in meeting rising water demands, supporting economic growth, and addressing historical shortages. Notably, the President commended the significant involvement of women in leading and managing the project, emphasizing their expertise in science, engineering, and operations.
The R5 billion project has also created 871 jobs and provided skills training for over 2,000 community members in trades such as welding, electrical work, and bricklaying. Ramaphosa lauded Rand Water—a fully state-owned entity—for its financial efficiency, long-term planning, and commitment to excellence, calling it a model for other public enterprises.
“The water processed here defines us as a nation,” Ramaphosa stated, urging leaders to replicate such projects nationwide. He also stressed the need to prepare for climate change and digital innovation in water management.
The President concluded by promising personalized certificates for all contributors, honoring their role as “builders of a better South Africa.” The plant will serve nearly 19 million people across four provinces, with capacity designed to meet future population growth.
