Water and sanitation backlogs in villages in the Vhembe district received priority in the capital budget of the Vhembe District Municipality.

Executive Mayor Tshitereke Matibe announced during his recent budget speech that they had set aside R789 million for water and sanitation this financial year. "This allocation represents 95% of our capital budget of R840 million,” said Matibe.

He said the allocation of more funds was done to address challenges of water and sanitation and that it was a clear indication of the commitment they had to tackle water challenges head on "without passing the blame to other stakeholders".

He stated that about 24 projects would be implemented this financial year. “The projects include the Mulima-Likhade source development and bulk water supply in the Makhado municipal area, the Luphephe-Masisi bulk water supply in Mutale and the Budeli-Dumasi, Mutoti and Makhuvha water reticulation in Thulamela Municipality,” added Matibe.

Matibe appealed to the traditional leaders in the district to work hand in hand with the municipality so that real development can be implemented.

King Toni Mphephu Ramabulana said that, as the traditional leadership, they wanted to work well with municipalities, so that the lives of people could change for the better. “We are worried that some councillors are fighting with traditional leaders when community projects start to function and they come to a halt. We want councillors to respect the traditional leaders."

Hosi Busa Nxumalo welcomed the developments outlined in the budget speech and expressed the hope that the district would be able to meet future challenges.