CONTRACT: WP10634 DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
FINAL TECHNICAL FEASIBILITY STUDY REPORT FEBRUARY 2014
PREPARED BY: PREPARED FOR:
APHANE CONSULTING CC DEPARTMENT OF WATER AFFAIRS P.O. BOX 1065 DIRECTORATE: NATIONAL POLOKWANE RESOURCE PLANNING 0700 PRIVATE BAG X9506 TEL: (015) 295 6068 POLOKWANE FAX: (015) 291 5651 0700 EMAIL: [email protected] DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
WATER DWMAND CENTRES
The main water demand centres in the study area include the following;
Weipe/Pontdrift Farms,
Venetia Mine,
Vele Colliery,
Musina Town,
Nzhelele Valley Farms, and
Proposed Great Soutpansberg Coalfields north of the Soutpansberg Mountains.
Weipe/Pontdrift Farms
The Weipe/Pontdrift Farms irrigate an estimated 5600 hectares using water abstracted from the alluvial aquifer part of which lies under the Limpopo and Shashe River bed. The Talana Farms in Botswana and the Zimbabwe farms which are all adjacent to the confluence of the Shashe and Limpopo rivers irrigate an estimated total 900 hectares abstracting water from the same aquifer. It is estimated that currently more than 60 million cubic metres per annum is abstracted from the transfrontier alluvial aquifer at the confluence of the two rivers for irrigating the combined estimated 6500 hectares.
There is no coordination between the three riparian states with regards monitoring and controlling water abstraction from the alluvial aquifer.
The Limpopo Water Course Commission, whose role under the Protocol on Shared Waters in the SADC is the coordination and monitoring of water abstraction from the Limpopo river and its aquifers should be supported and made effective to ensure the aquifer is not over abstracted.
Venetia Mine
Venetia Mine has an allocation of 5.7 million cubic meters per year from the Limpopo alluvial aquifer but at present only uses 4.2 million cubic meters per year.
Venetia mine has an extensive aquifer monitoring system recording the condition of its boreholes and the surrounding vegetation. The information is use for management of its aquifers which includes switching off the pumps when borehole water level reaches a predetermined level.
Venetia Mine reports that it is constantly improving its kimberlite diamonds processing at the mine resulting in progressive reduction processing water requirements. Venetia Mine’s water requirements are not likely to increase in the next 30 years (De Beers).
FINAL REPORT Page i
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
Vele Colliery
Vele Colliery is an open cast coal mine with a 30 year mine life producing 12.9 million tons ROM per annum from which it sells 2.5 million tons of coking coal to Accellor Mittal and exports 2.5 Million tons as thermal coal.
Vele Colliery has water rights for 2.7 million cubic metres per annum from the Limpopo River and alluvial aquifer. It also has an off river flood water storage dam with a capacity of 1million cubic metres.
The Colliery operates a “closed” water utilisation system and its water requirements are not likely to increase over the planning period. (Coal Of Africa)
Musina Town
Table 8.1 shows the water sales volumes for the 2013/2013 financial year.
Table1 : Water Consumption for Musina Town
Description Jul- 12 A ug - 12 Sep - 12 Oct - 12 N o v- 12 D ec- 12 Jan- 13 F eb - 13 M ar- 13 A p r- 13 M ay- 13 Jun- 13 TOTAL
DOM ESTIC 223 501.00 205 902.00 200 927.00 230 095.00 192 069.00 193 850.00 238 247.00 271 860.00 132 660.00 195 081.00 215 004.00 223 639.00 2 522 835.00
INDUSTRIAL 2 464.00 2 186.00 2 112.00 2 379.00 2 063.00 1 962.00 2 085.00 3 559.00 2 391.00 2 220.00 3 237.00 2 984.00 29 642.00
COM M ERCIAL 74 523.00 66 089.00 90 272.00 81 881.00 69 462.00 107 732.00 87 392.00 90 685.00 1 108 427.00 92 280.00 113 318.00 181 506.00 2 163 567.00
INSTITUTIONAL 7 206.00 5 459.00 4 114.00 3 860.00 2 402.00 2 941.00 6 008.00 3 015.00 3 675.00 4 629.00 7 737.00 5 739.00 56 785.00 TOTAL 307 694.00 279 636.00 297 425.00 318 215.00 265 996.00 306 485.00 333 732.00 369 119.00 1 247 153.00 294 210.00 339 296.00 413 868.00 4 772 829.00
52.86% of the water is for domestic use, 45.33% is for commercial use, 1.19% for institutional use and 0.62% for industrial use.
The population of Musina Town in 2011 was 43500. Population projections for low and high growth scenarios for 2013 are 44 286 and 44 418 respectively. For the gross water consumption of 5 250 112 Million cubic meters, allowing for 10% losses, the average 2013 per capita domestic water consumption is 171l/c/d and a the average annual gross water consumption for Musina Town is 324l/c/d.
The recommended range for residential consumption is 250l/c/d for highly developed areas and 130l/c/d for moderate to highly developed areas. The per capita consumption for domestic water of 171l/c/d is of the correct order of magnitude. The commercial consumption of 2.164 million cubic meters per annum appears high and needs to be investigated further.
The 2035 population under low and high growth scenarios is 53 935 and 55 893 respectively and the corresponding water demand is 6.38 million cubic meters per annum and 6.60million cubic meters per annum respectively.
The proposed Eco- Industrial park is designed such that there is extensive water recycling and will result in minimal additional water demand for Musina Town.
The timing and scope of the transport hub, inland port and supply centre is not fully understood but can be conservatively estimated at 20% addition in demand which under low and high growth scenarios becomes 7.65million cubic meters per annum and 7.93million cubic meters per annum.
FINAL REPORT Page ii
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
Musina should be able to abstract the 10.4million cubic meters per annum allocated from the alluvial aquifer because of the assured recharge as a result of the weir constructed downstream of the bridge over the Limpopo river in Bietbridge. The town’s allocation of 10.4million cubic meters per annum is in excess of the 7.93 million cubic meters required under the high growth scenario for 2035. Musina Town water supply will not require augmentation up to 2035. Nzhelele Valley Farms
Consultations with the Nzhelele Valley Irrigation Farmer’s Association provided the following information:
i) Citrus irrigation farmers are receiving 75% of their water requirements per hectare and are short by 1600m³ per hectare per annum for the 3000 hectares under irrigation, ie there is currently a supressed demand of 4.8million cubic meters per year for the citrus farms which adversely affects yield.
ii) Farmers can expand the irrigated area by an additional 3000 hectares in the short term if water was available, because the climate and soils are ideal for citrus irrigation farming, ie there is also supressed demand equal to 30 million cubic meters per year at 1000 cubic meters per annum per hectare.
iii) Expansion of the citrus irrigation to 100 000 hectares is commercially viable provided 100 000 000 million cubic metres of water per annum is made available. The current revenue from the 3000 hectare citrus irrigation is R1 billion per annum and this amount could be increased more than thirty times.
iv) Nzhelele Valley Irrigation Farmers Association will support expansion of the citrus irrigation by 100 000 hectares because the expansion is commercially viable. The soils and the climate, are ideal for citrus irrigation farming and the only drawback is that there is no water. The expansion will create at least 10 000 permanent direct jobs, at one job per ten hectares, as well as permanent downstream jobs. (Meeting with Mr Nicholson, Chairman of Nzhelele Valley Irrigation Farmers Association)
Greater Soutpansberg Coalfield
The table below shows the different coal related projects by Coal of Africa and the various stages of development.
Table 2: Greater Soutpansberg Coalfield Projects
STAGE OF PROJECT COAL FIELD DEVELOPMENT Feasibility Stage Makhado Greater Soutpansberg Pre –feasibility Stage Telema & Gray Greater Soutpansberg Pre –feasibility Stage Tshipise Energy Project -Coal Bed Greater Soutpansberg Methane Resource Definition i) Chapudi Greater Soutpansberg ii) Voorburg Advanced i) Mount Stuart Greater Soutpansberg Exploration ii) Jutland Early Exploration i) Chapudi West Greater Soutpansberg
FINAL REPORT Page iii
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
Identified Target i) Wilderbeesthoek Greater Soutpansberg ii) General
(Coal of Africa) Figure 2 shows the ideal location of the Makhado and Great Soutpansberg Coalfield ie close to roads (N1 and R523), the railway line as well as ESKOM power supply. The only drawback is the source of large volumes of water required for coal processing.
Figure 3 shows the regions comprising coalfields and the different projects in each region.
Figure 4 shows that the proposed development of Coal Mines by Coal of Africa north of the Soutpansberg Mountains which will require a maximum of 1.9 million m3 per annum until 2018, then 5.9 million m3 per annum until 2032 and 9.5million m3per annum until 2044.
There are no viable water sources to meet the demand in the study area and there is no viable proposal for transfer from other Mater Management Areas.
(Coal of Africa)
Figure 2: Strategic Location of the Great Soutpansberg Coalfield
FINAL REPORT Page iv
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
(Coal of Africa)
Figure 3: Location the Makhado and Great Soutpansberg Coalfields Projects.
(Coal of Africa)
Figure 3: Projected water demand for the Makhado and Great Soutpansberg Coalfield
FINAL REPORT Page v
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
MAIN WATER SOURCES IN THE STUDY AREA
The main water sources in the study area are
i) the Limpopo river and the alluvial aquifer under the riverbed and ii) the Nzhelele Dam
The Limpopo river and the alluvial aquifer under the riverbed
This aquifer forms part of the Limpopo river basin which is governed the SADC Protocol on Shared Watercourses. Conformity to the Protocol is monitored by the Limpopo River Basin Commission which was established in November 2003 which unfortunately is not very active.
At present large volumes of water, at least 70million cubic meters per annum, are currently being abstracted from section of the Limpopo alluvial aquifer in the study area for irrigation, mining and for Musina Town without the requisite comprehensive monitoring and control measures in place to ensure sustainability of the source.
Nzhelele Dam
Nzhelele Dam is located on the Nzhelele River and has a capacity of 55.3 million cubic meters. The dam was primarily built for irrigation purposes but also serves as a source of water for domestic use. The water in the dam is over allocated and some farmers have had their allocations reduced in order to accommodate new users.
There are substantial losses in the water conveyance systems which if attended will result in substantial savings.
ALTERNATIVE WATER SOURCES
Zhove Dam on Umzingwane River - Zimbabwe
It has been established that at least 30 million m3 per annum raw water could be purchased from the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA) as soon as agreements are in place. The water source is the Zhove Dam on the Umzingwane River, a tributary of the Limpopo river which joins the Limpopo river about 5 kilometres upstream of the Bietbridge Border post. The water will be abstracted as surface water from the Limpopo River on the Zimbabwe river banks as the water is released from the Zhove Dam
The water from the Zhove dam can be used to meet the all the needs for the Makhado and Great Soutpansberg Coalfield, provide for the current 4.8 million cubic metres per annum shortfall being experienced by the Nzhelele Valley Irrigation Farmers Association, and allow the farmers to bring under irrigation an additional 3000 hectares of citrus trees with the realisation of an additional R1 billion per annum in revenue when the plants mature as well as creation of employment.
Zambezi River
Zimbabwe currently abstracts water downstream of the Victoria Falls for the Hwange Thermal Power Station. Zimbabwe has plans to abstract water from the Zambezi River for domestic and industrial use in Bulawayo and eventually to Beit-Bridge. The project will also provide water for substantial Irrigation Projects between the Zambezi river and Bulawayo.
FINAL REPORT Page vi
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
Botswana is carrying out a feasibility study for commercial irrigation of 40 000 hectares in the Pandamatenga area water abstracted from the Zambezi and the provision of a pipeline from Pandamatenga to eventually join the North South Carrier transferring the water to all the towns in the east of Botswana down to Lobatse.
The Zambezi River has the capacity to provide irrigation water for 100 000 hectares as proposed by the Nzhelele Valley Irrigation Farmers Association
It is logical for the three countries to join effort and transfer water from the Zambezi catchment, downstream of the Victoria Falls to the Limpopo Catchment at the Shashe river source in Zimbabwe, whilst providing water to Bulawayo. The Shashe river flow will provide water for the North South Carrier in Botswana and the 100 000 hectares irrigation in the study area. Alternatively a pipeline could be built from Bulawayo to Bietbridge to the study area subject to the outcome of a feasibility study to determine the preferred solution.
CONCLUSIONS
There are no water shortages at the major water demand centres in the study area except for the area supplied by the Nzhelele Dam and the proposed Makhado and Great Soutpansberg Coalfield.
The water requirements of the proposed inland port, transport hub and supply centre can be met from the present source, ie the alluvial aquifer. The proposed echo-industrial park has extensive water recycling as part of the design and will require minimal additional water to the existing Musina Town water demand.
There is an urgent need for monitoring and controlling water abstraction from the alluvial aquifer under the Limpopo river jointly by the riparian states under the Protocol on Shared Waters in the SADC to ensure that:
i) there is no over abstraction which may damage the alluvial aquifer, and
ii) enough water is released from the dams upstream to provide for the recharge of the aquifer.
RECOMMENDATIONS
It is recommended that negotiations be carried with the Zimbabwe National Water Authority for purchasing at least 30 million cubic meters per year from the Zhove Dam to meet the demands at the Makhado and Great Soutpansberg Coal Field, and for the Nzhelele Valley Irrigation farms. This will be commercially driven by mining and irrigated farming.
It is recommended that negotiations should commence with the Zambezi River riparian states through the Zambezi Water Course Commission under the Protocol on Shared Waters in the SADC with regards abstracting water from the Zambezi for commercial irrigated farming which will make immense economic contribution to the study area and the Province as a whole.
Constant dialogue with the Nzhelele Irrigation Farmers’ Association and Coal of Africa with regards is recommended with regards their participation and contribution to the costs of the projects. This will ensure that the water storage, distribution and reticulation network as well as the end use site are ready when the bulk water is delivered.
FINAL REPORT Page vii
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
It is recommended that steps are taken to ensure that the abstraction from the Limpopo river alluvial aquifer are closely monitored and controlled
The conclusions and recommendations from the Feasibility Study for the Bulk Water Supply for the MUTASSHI Corridor have been accepted by the Department of Water as follows:
Professional Service Provider: Department of Water Affairs Department of Water Affairs APHANE CONSULTING Project Manager Regional Office
Name …………………………. Name ………………………….. Name……………………….. :
Signature……………………… Signature………………………. Signature …………………..
Date…………………………… Date……………………………. Date…………………………
Position………………………... Position………………………... Position……………………..
FINAL REPORT Page viii
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1: GENERAL INTRODUCTION ...... 1 1.1 Background Information ...... 1 1.2 Purpose of the Feasibility Study ...... 2 1.3 Project Methodology ...... 2 CHAPTER TWO: GEOGRAPHIC AND CONTEXT SETTINGS ...... 4 2.1. Introduction ...... 4 2.2. Geographic Location, Boundaries and size, Provincial and National Context ...... 4 CHAPTER THREE: CURRENT REALITY-SITUATION ANALYSIS ...... 8 3.1 Introduction ...... 8 3.2 Major Land Uses And Spatial Footprints ...... 8 3.3 Demographic Imperatives ...... 11 3.4 Socio Economic Imperatives ...... 12 3.5. Housing Provision ...... 15 3.6. Access To Services Infrastructure ...... 15 3.7. Road, Rail and Air Links ...... 17 3.8. Social Services ...... 17 3.9 Agriculture And Industrial Development ...... 18 3.10 Change and Growth ...... 20 3.10.1 Constraints ...... 20 3.10.2 Problems ...... 20 3.10.3 Opportunities ...... 21 CHAPTER 4: HYDROLOGY AND SURFACE WATER INFRASTRUCTURE ...... 22 4.1 Introduction ...... 22 4.2 Climate ...... 24 4.3 Geology ...... 26 4.4 Hydrology ...... 26 4.5 Geohydrology ...... 27 4.6 Land use ...... 27 4.7 Water infrastructures (Dams)...... 29 4.9 Discussion and Conclusion ...... 35 CHAPTER 5: GROUNDWATER RESOURCES ASSESSMENT ...... 36 5.1 Introduction ...... 36
FINAL REPORT Page ix
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
5.1 Geology and Stratigraphy ...... 36 5.2 Groundwater Potential ...... 37 5.2.3 Mean Annual Evaporation ...... 41 5.2.4 GEOLOGY ...... 42 5.2.5 DELINEATION OF GROUNDWATER MANAGEMENT UNITS ...... 42 5.2.6 RESOURCE CLASSIFICATION ...... 43 Basic Human Needs ...... 43 Base Flow Determination ...... 43 5.2.7 RECHARGE ...... 44 Chloride Method ...... 46 5.2.8 RESERVE QUANTIFICATION ...... 47 5.2.9 STRESS INDEX ...... 49 5.2.10 VULNERABILITY AND ABSTRACTION ...... 51 5.2.11 RECOMMENDATIONS ...... Error! Bookmark not defined. REFERENCES ...... 59
FINAL REPORT Page x
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
ABBREVIATIONS
AADD Average Annual Daily Demand ALC Active Leakage Control CBD Central Business Districts CSIR Council for Scientific and Industrial Research D: NWRP Directorate: National Water Resource Planning DM District Municipality DMA District Meter Area DWA Department of Water Affairs DPLG Department of Provincial and Local government FC Fibre Cement IDP Integrated Development Plan IRP Integrated Resource Planning LIMCOM Limpopo Watercourse Commission LOS Level of Service LM Local Municipality MDG Millennium Development Goals NRW Non-Revenue Water NSDP National Spatial Development Perspective NGDB National Groundwater Database PRV Pressure Reducing Valve RBIG Regional Bulk Infrastructure Grant RDP Reconstruction and Development Programme RWS Regional Water Supply Scheme SA South Africa SDI Spatial Development Initiative SDF Spatial Development Framework UFW Unaccounted for Water WARMS Water Use Registering and Licensing Management System WC/WDM Water Conservation and Water Demand Management
FINAL REPORT Page xi
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
WMA Water Management Area WRC Water Research Commission WRSM2005 Water Resources Simulation Model 2005 WSA Water Services Authority WSDP Water Services Development Plan WSNIS Water Services National Information System WSP Water Services Provider WTW Water Treatment Works WWTW Wastewater Treatment Works
FINAL REPORT Page xii
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
Aquifer An aquifer is an underground layer of water-bearing permeable rock or unconsolidated materials (gravel, sand, silt, or clay) from which groundwater can be abstracted. Allocation Water allocation refers to the volume of water that is authorised for abstractions by the regulator (DWA) by means of a Water Use licence. Catchment The land area drained by a river and its tributaries. Water A measure of the water need of a water user or users usually expressed requirement in units of litres per capita per day, million m3/annum or Mega litres per day (Ml/day). Demand Measures available to a Water Service Provider to reduce water demand reduction and improve water use efficiency or through water restrictions. Entitlement A water entitlement is the general term used to describe water authorities (right to use) granted under the National Water Act, No. 36 of 1998. This can be either a water allocation, interim water allocation or a water licence. Groundwater Groundwater is the water located beneath the earth's surface in soil pore spaces and in the fractures of rock formations. A unit of rock or an unconsolidated deposit is called an aquifer when it can yield a usable quantity of water. Non-Revenue This is the difference between the volume of water supplied into a Water system and the billed authorised consumption for the area being supplied by the system. Reliable yield The quantity of water that can be abstracted for a given use from a supply source or supply option with a specified degree of reliability (assurance of supply), which is determined through analysis. Reliability of The probability of providing a specified water entitlement under given supply operating conditions for a specified period of time. Supply option A potential future water resource, defined as any location-specific change to water availability, infrastructure or reliable off-take that will result in the total available supply being increased or augmented. Surface water Surface water is water on the surface of the earth such as in a stream, river, dam, wetland or ocean. Water balance Numerical comparison of the water requirement with the available water or yield, for current and future planning years. It is usually provided in graphical form for ease of interpretation. Yield The average annual volume that can be drawn from a supply source or supply option to meet a specified requirement at a specified reliability (service level). The volume is usually expressed as million m³ per annum. Yield is always associated with some measure of probability of an occurrence of a reduced supply, expressed as either the risk of failures or the assurance of supply.
FINAL REPORT Page xiii
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
CHAPTER 1: GENERAL INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background Information
1.1.1 The proposed MUTASSHI/MUSINA corridor is a strategic supply hub initiative which comprises of a new infant port and freight and logistics gateway, as well as other proposed projects within the corridor, which include the following:
i) The proposed Eco- Industrial Park, which will include:
Coke and Power Generation Plant,
Gas to Liquids Plant,
Brick Making Plant,
Plasma Waste Gasification Plant, and
Waste Water Treatment Plant
ii) The proposed Trade Centre; and
iii) The proposed expansion of mining activities.
iv) The proposed expansion of agricultural activities in the Nzhelele Valley and surrounding areas.
1.1.2 The corridor is envisaged to run from Makhado through Musina and ending at Beit-Bridge on the border with Zimbabwe. It is important to point that the corridor encompasses the entire local Municipalities of Mhakado and Musina. The above mentioned developments and other proposed projects will dramatically increase the level of economic activities in the corridor, thus transforming it into a major hub for industrial and economic developments. The corridor which lies within Limpopo Province and Vhembe District Municipality is strategically located in close proximity to Zimbabwe, Botswana and Mozambique, which puts it in a strategic position to serve as a gateway to the Southern African Development Conference (SADC), the Sub-Saharan Africa and the rest of Africa and thus positively contributing towards unleashing the vast economic potential of the continent.
The corridor is endowed with large reserves as minerals and is one of the agriculturally rich area of South Africa, with great potential for manufacturing industries. The corridor will therefor provide a powerful platform for investors to access the South Africa region and for the economies of the municipalities of Musina and Mhakado, Vhembe District, Limpopo Province and indeed South Africa to grow in a manner that creates sustainable jobs, and ultimately improve the living conditions of the people. It is in this light that the MUTASSHI/MUSINA Corridor development initiative should be seen as part of the Limpopo growth and development initiative.
DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 1
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
1.1.3 Given the magnitude of the corridor development initiative and the scale of proposed projects, the steady availability of water to a very large extent will determine the success or otherwise of the initiative. It is for this reason that a feasibility study for bulk water supply to the corridor is essential, in order to ensure that bulk water supply is in place to sustain the corridor development initiatives.
1.2 Purpose of the Feasibility Study
1.2.1 The primary purpose of the development of a feasibility study for the MUTASSHI/MUSINA corridor bulk water supply is to at the end of the exercise, realistically determine the practicability of implementing the corridor development initiative, having assessed the socio-economic conditions of the area. The socio- economic assessment which focuses on demographics, housing and household profiles, access to infrastructure services, economic structure and growth, employment and unemployment amongst others, is meant to give a clear picture of likely population of the area, types of economic activities and projects envisaged, economic profile of the population and importantly needs assessment of the corridor, with particular emphasis on water supply and demand.
1.2.2 The outcomes of the socio economic feasibility study for the bilk water supply to the corridor will determine the practicability of implementing the corridor development initiative, in the sense that the nature and types of use activities and number of consumers to be supplied with water; the possible sources of water and their yields; as well as the water supply infrastructure that will be required; would have been known as well as a result of the study.
1.3 Project Methodology
1.3.1 The methodology and process to be adopted in carrying out the feasibility study for MUTASSHI/MUSINA Corridor Bulk Water Supply revolve around the following and procedural steps:
1) Socio-Economic Studies
i) Desk top studies/reviews of all relevant literature, reports and maps, including topographical maps relating to the corridor
ii) Field Surveys and data collection on all sectors as they presently exist. This exercise will focus and capture data on existing major land uses and activities; Infrastructure Services, housing and household profiles; economic profile and economic growth patterns; employment and unemployment; demographic/population profile.
iii) Subnational and spatial analysis relating to all the collected data and information from the field surveys and desk top studies. Determine adequacies of infrastructure services and other social and civic facilities.
iv) Identification of issues and challenges to the successful implementation of the corridor development initiative and recommendation on possible solutions.
v) Forecasts and projections- population, households, major land use activities DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 2
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
2) Surface and Ground Water Resources Survey
i) Identify all surface and groundwater sources.
ii) Carry out yields assessment of all identified water sources.
iii) Delineate all water catchments using both physical maps and aerial photographs.
iv) Determine water resources management efficiency in the corridor.
v) Carry out water demands analysis- unit water consumption and projected demands
vi) Inventory of current water supply infrastructure in place.
3) Stakeholder Engagement and Consultation Process
Stakeholder consultants will play a key role in determining the potential socio-economic impacts of the proposed corridor development on the local communities and stakeholders.
The objectives of the Stakeholder Consultation exercise will be;
i) To identify all stakeholders, affected and interested parties, public officials and organisations to be engaged;
ii) To introduce the proposed corridor development to stakeholders
iii) To solicit and elicit comments, views and concerns of local communities and stakeholders on the project.
iv) To have a document report on the consultations which will include feedback from the stakeholders
DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 3
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
CHAPTER TWO: GEOGRAPHIC AND CONTEXT SETTINGS
2.1. Introduction
2.1.1. This chapter gives a summary of the study area in terms of its geographic location, size, provincial and national context. It also summarises the key issues emanating from the municipal, provincial and national contexts. Most of the information at this stage is sourced from secondary sources such as Municipality Development Plans.
2.2. Geographic Location, Boundaries and size, Provincial and National Context
2.2.1. The study area which comprises of the corridor between Makhado and Musina areas is located in the Vhembe District municipality which is located in the Limpopo Province. The Limpopo Province consists of six District Municipalities as shown on map 2.1, namely:
i) Vhembe District Municipality ii) Waterberg District Municipality iii) Capricorn District Municipality iv) Mopani District Municipality v) Bohlabela District Municipality vi) Sekhukhune District Municipality
DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 4
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
Map 2.1: Makhado and Musina Corridor in Provincial Context
Source: Makhado Municipality- Local Economic Development Plan
2.2.2. The Vhembe District Municipality extends over 21, 596 square km and is situated in the north of Limpopo Province. The Kruger National Park lies to the east of it. To the north and north-west it shares international borders with Zimbabwe and Botswana respectively. The district capital is Thohoyandou. Each of the District Municipalities consists of Local Municipalities. The four local Municipalities in the Vhembe District as shown in Map 2.2 are:
i) Makhado Local Municipality
ii) Musina Local Municipality
iii) Mutale Local Municipality
iv) Thulamela Local Municipality
Makhado and Musina are the biggest of the four in terms of geographical size.
DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 5
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
Map 2.2: Local Municipalities of Vhembe District Municipality
Source: Makhado Municipality- Local Economic Development Plan
2.2.3. Table 2.1 shows the details of the four local municipalities within the Vhembe District. The biggest geographical area is Makhado with 8,299 square km followed by Musina with 7,576 square km. The smallest is Mutale local municipality with 3,886 square km in 2011.
DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 6
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
Table 2.1: Statistics of the Vhembe District and Local Municipalities Municipalitie Area Area (km2) after 2011 s within the (km2) Local Government Elections & % change District in 2009 Vhembe 21,121.15 25,596.47 21.19% District Municipality Makhado 8,299.70 8,299.70 - Local Municipality Musina Local 7,576.84 7,576.84 - Municipality Mutale Local 2,345.92 3,886.21 65.66% Municipality Thulamela 2,898.69 5,833.72 101.25% Local Municipality Source: Vhembe District Municipality Profile. Corporative Governance and Traditional affairs; Republic of South Africa, pp 5-6.
DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 7
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
CHAPTER THREE: CURRENT REALITY-SITUATION ANALYSIS
3.1 Introduction
3.1.1 This Chapter attempts to capture and analyse the current realities in the corridor with regards to the major land uses, prevailing socio-economic conditions, infrastructure services, including water supply, with a view of identifying challenges and problems that could impact on the practicability of implementing the corridor development initiative. The Draft Integrated Draft Development Plans 2012/2013 for Musina and Makhado municipalities have served as major sources of information for this chapter.
3.2 Major Land Uses And Spatial Footprints
3.2.1 The MUTASSHI/MUSINA Corridor essentially encompasses Makhado and Musina Local Municipalities. While Makhado Local Municipality covers a land area of 8,299 km2, Musina Local Municipality covers a land area of 7,577km2.
3.2.2 The Spatial Structure of Musina Local Municipality falls within the second order settlement as depicted by the hierarchy as contained in the spatial rationale. The Settlement hierarchy of Musina municipality as per the spatial rationale is as follows:
i. Musina (Musina and Nancefield) can be described as a provincial growth point (1st order settlement) due to their relative high level of economic activity and rendering of services to local and surrounding communities.
ii. Tshipise can be described as a 3rd order settlement (Local Service Point) due to its function in terms of limited service delivery to the surrounding commercial farming areas, tourism attraction and nature conservation.
iii. Madimbo, Malele, Tshikhudini, Tanda Domboni can be described as 5th order settlements due to their small populations and the fact that they are only functioning as residential areas with no economic base.
3.2.3 The Major land uses found in Musina Municipality are residential settlements, agriculture/farms, mines, tourism attractions and conservation areas. It should be noted that within settlements are to be found commercial and industrial land uses as well as other civic uses such as sports and recreation. The only urban area within the municipality is the town of Musina which has significant areas of vacant land, specifically to the west of the CBD. Five areas with agricultural potential have been identified, ie an area along the Limpopo river (Limpopo valley –including Weipe farms); an area along sand river (to the west of Mopane); the Nwanedi farms; an area along the Nzhelele river (Nzhelele irrigation area); and an area along the Nwanedi river (State land leased by small farmers). Two industrial are found in Musina. Industrial node 1 is located to the south of Musina, adjacent and to the west of the N1 highway. It has rail facilities
DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 8
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
and caters mainly for heavy and noxious industries. There is sufficient erven in this node still available for the medium and long term. Industrial node 2 is located to the North of Musina adjacent to the east and north of the N1 highway. This industrial area caters only for light and service industries. Sufficient erven for light and service industries are still available for the medium and long term. Mining has recently become a very active sector within Musina Municipality and as result, there are two active mines- the Venetia Mine, which has been expanded and the Vele coal mine. There are many new coal mines under development particularly north of the Soutpansberg mountains. Throughout the Municipality, there are however many disused mines which in some cases constitute environmental problems.
3.2.4 The bulk of state land (National and provincial), apart from few individual farms is found around the town of Musina, which make up about 8% of the land holdings of the Municipality. Municipal land made up to 27 farms which are distributed throughout the Municipality constitute 2% of land holdings within the Municipality. Private land make up 59% of land within the Municipality. On the other hand institutional land falls in two large clusters mainly owned by de Beers consolidated Mines and the South African Development Trust, located around the Venetia Diamond Mine and the Domboni/Madimbo areas respectively. Mixed ownership sites constitutes parent farms that have been subdivided and the subdivisions are owned by the state, privately or by an institution. This catecory of land constitute only 1% of land ownership within the municipality.
DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 9
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
3.2.5 The settlement hierarchy in Makhado Municipality is as follows:
i. Pronvincial Growth Point
- Makhado town
ii District Growth Point
- Elim/Waterval
iii Municipality Growth Points
- Vuwani
- Dzanini
- Nkuzana
- Madombidzha
iv Local Service Points
- Vleifontein
- Valdezia
- Buysdorp
- Tshimbupfe
- Vivo
- Manyi
- Olifantshoek
- Waterpoort
3.2.6 A majority of the population in the Municipality reside in the rural areas. The rural areas are the most underdeveloped, with large open spaces. Large portions of the open spaces are used for farming purposes, with approximately 10478 farms in the municipal area. Due to the fact that most of the areas in between settlements are utilised for extensive farming, these areas are under constant threat of environmental degradation
3.2.7 Land in rural area within the Municipality is held in trust by government for the traditional authorities, and the relevant legislations make private land ownership very difficult. As a result very few people get private land ownership.
DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 10
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
3.3 Demographic Imperatives
3.3.1. This section summarises issues relating to demographics in the study area. Table 3.1 summaries the statistics on population and poverty for the study area. The population of Vhembe District Municipality was estimated at 1,232,218 in 2011. The biggest population for the district is in Mutale Local Municipality, followed by Mutale. Population for Makhado is the third largest in the district with 468,830 people which represents about 9.4% of the provincial and 41.4% of the district population respectively. The smallest population in the district is in Musina local municipality with 56,835 people. On the other hand Musina had the lowest poverty rate with 24.21 percent of the population being classified as poor. Makhado has a relatively high poverty rate estimated at 64.2 percent even though it is slightly lower than Mutale and Thulamela municipalities.
Table 3.1: Socio Economic Statistics of the Vhembe District and Local Municipalities
Municipalities within the District Population No. of Poverty Population
Households Rate
Vhembe District Municipality 1,232,218 285,375 55.85% 1,232,218
Makhado Local Municipality 468,830 113,339 64.29% 468,830
Musina Local Municipality 56,835 14,112 24.21% 56,835
Mutale Local Municipality 107,532 20,941 66.08% 107,532
Thulamela Local Municipality 599,021 136,982 68.81% 599,021
Source: Vhembe District Municipality Profile. Corporative Governance and Traditional affairs; Republic of South Africa, pp 5-6.
3.3.2. Makhado’s population is estimated to be growing at 1.4 percent per annum and is composed of relatively more females at 54 percent of the total population than males. The population has a youthful age structure. This implies an anticipated rapidly growing population in the future given that most people are still young. This is also a big challenge given that the local economy is currently unable to absorb the youthful labour force. The youthful population structure also implies a relatively higher dependency ratio.
3.3.3. The economically active population or the labour force of Makhado was estimated at 46 percent. This means that a higher percentage of this population is economically inactive. These comprise of school going children, the old and the sick. From a socio economic point of view it means the local municipality has a high dependency ratio which needs to be supported by the smaller economically active population. The economically active population is made up of those employed and those looking for jobs. With high unemployment rate in the area as is the case in Makhado, it therefore means those supporting the larger population are even much smaller as a proportion of
DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 11
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
the whole population. This correlates well with the relatively high poverty rate shown in table 3.1. The majority of the population in Makhado lives in the rural areas, which are also the most underdeveloped. Makhado Local Municipality has 7 population concentration points, which are Midoroni, Gogobole, Bungeni, Tshino, Tshakhuma, Tshafhasi and Njakanjaka. These are settlement areas with large numbers of people and high population densities. The Makhado municipal growth points are Vuwani, Dzanani, Nkuzana, Madombidzha.
3.3.4. Musina local municipality has the smallest population in the Vhembe district, with 28 percent of the population aged below age 15 and a dependency ratio of 44 percent. Just like Makhado, it has a high relatively youthful population, high dependency rate. It however has a relatively low unemployment and poverty rates estimated at 19 and 24 percent respectively.
3.4 Socio Economic Imperatives
3.4.1. The study area consists mainly of commercial farms, tourism hot spots such as Mapungubwe and small-scale mining activities. The district settlement pattern is largely rural, with women in the majority as well as people under 20 years of age. The low population density makes it extremely difficult and costly to improve levels of service delivery. Most people in rural areas still use non-ventilated pit toilets.
3.4.2. In terms of the municipality of Makhado, it can be considered to be a dualistic economy with the co-existence of a modern economy of the Makhado town and surrounding farms and the informal economies of surrounding townships and rural areas. Makhado town provides a regional function to the surrounding areas (e.g. trade services, banking, manufacturing, storage, transport, etc), because of its size and level of sophistication. The economy is also able to generate a significant number of direct employment opportunities for the local communities. The economies of surrounding townships and rural areas comprise mostly of informal activities and largely serve the immediate consumption needs of local people. The Agriculture, Trade and Services sectors largely drive the formal economy of Makhado town, Vleifontein, Elim, Dzanani, Levubu and Vuwani. A portion of the Makhado economy comprises of the processing of primary products produced locally (Makhado Municipality: Draft Integrated Development Plan).
3.4.3. The major employers of labour in Makhado municipality are in services, followed by trade and agriculture. As shown on table 3.2 unemployment in Makhado is relatively high estimated at about 48 percent for 2006 with the unemployment rate for women being almost 50 percent. It is therefore not surprising that poverty is also relatively high in Makhado municipality. Table 3.3 summarises socio economic indicators for Makhado municipality. Most of these show an unfavourable socio-economic status for the area. Some of these include a high unemployment rate, high income inequality as shown by the relatively high gini coefficient, high poverty, low human development index, high population density. These are key challenges that impact on demand for bulk water supply in the corridor.
DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 12
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
3.4.4. Some of the key challenges to development as indicated in the draft integrated development plan for 2012/13-2016/17 are the following:
i) The population growth rates tends to be much higher than the economic growth rate, which implies that the economy is unable to produce sufficient employment opportunities to absorb new entrants to the labour market.
ii) There is no accurate information on the past and current incidences of HIV/AIDS, but it can be assumed that it has increased significantly over the past 2 – 3 years, particularly in the rural areas.
iii) Local communities do not have sufficient information on life threatening diseases, particularly HIV/AIDS
iv) High child mortality levels are prevalent in the rural areas
v) The prevalence of illegal immigration is a growing challenge
vi) There is a lack of economic activities and investment in the area to aid with the issue of employment creation.
Table 3.2: Unemployment Rate (%)
Year Makhado Male 2005 36.2% 2006 33.8% Female 2005 65.7% 2006 63.0% Total 2005 51.4% 2006 48.9% Source: Makhado Municipality: Draft Integrated Development Plan- 2012/13-2016/17
Table 3.3: Summary of Socio-economic indicators- Makhado Municipality
Indicator Percentage GDP-R per capita contribution 3.9% Average annual growth (Constant 2000 2.7% Prices) Unemployment rate (%) 49.3% Economically active population 28.8% Rate of literacy 58.5 Gini coefficient 0.64 Percentage of people in poverty 62.5% Population density Population density 58.33 Human Development Index 0.51 Urbanisation rate per municipality 5% Number of households 297 753 Population 1 248 369 Current growth rate 0.74%
DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 13
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
Size of area (km2) 21 402 Source: Makhado Municipality: Draft Integrated Development Plan- 2012/13-2016/17
3.4.5. With regard to Musina its main economic contributors are Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing (35%), Mining (30%), Transport and communication (15%), Manufacturing (11%), Finance and business services (9%), wholesale & retail trade, catering and accommodation (6%), community, social, personal services (6%), government services (5%), construction (5%). The unemployment rate stands at 25% with the highest percentage amongst the youth aged between 15 to 19 years. Musina local municipality contributes 11% of GDP to the Vhembe district municipality. The municipality has high labour force participation rate and a relatively low dependency rate. It is not surprising therefore that the poverty rate in the area is relatively small compared to the other 3 provinces in the Vhembe district.
Table 3.4 Employment Indicators for Musina
Unemployment rate 25%
Employment rate 75%
Labour force participation rate 81%
Dependency rate 2.6%
Musina Local Municipality: Draft IDP: 2012/13-2017
3.4.6. Like the Makhado area, Musina municipality is said to comprise a dualistic economy with a “commercial” component largely located in Musina (urban area) and “non- commercial” or agricultural component. The agricultural sector as indicated dominates the economy of Musina in terms of both output and employment. According to the Musina Municipality Draft IDP, some of the problems associated with the non- commercial component are:
i) The natural resource base and economy does not have the capacity to support the total population, forcing a large percentage of the labour force to seek employment opportunities outside of the municipality ii) The low levels of income from the formal sector forced a portion of the population still residing in the area to enter and participate in informal and marginal activities
DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 14
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
iii) The low level of income also imply low levels of buying power and , therefore, few opportunities for related activities such as trade. This in turn supports the leakage of buying power since there are fewer local outlets to buy from. iv) The economic relationship between the settlements in the municipality and Musina CBD are not yet strong v) There is a shortage of job opportunities and job creation in the area vi) Established businesses and farmers still prefer to employ immigrants at lower wages vii) SMME’s need financial assistance to expand their businesses and to promote/advertise their products, and viii) There is a lack of finance to pursue farming projects.
3.5. Housing Provision
3.5.1. Available information show that in 2005 there were 14 903 households in Musina local Municipality, of which 10 234 had access to RDP standards and 4 669 were below the RDP standards. For Makhado municipality, about 16 807 people stay in houses that are below the RDP standards, while 110 020 stay in houses that are of the RDP standard. The majority of the population reside in rural areas or in informal settlements and very few people have bought their houses while majority rent their houses.
3.6. Access To Services Infrastructure
Water Supply
3.6.1. With regards to access to water supply, the situation in Musina local municipality is as follows:
i) 7879 households in the urban area of Musina have metered yard connections;
ii) 1037 households in Madimbo, 700 households in Malale and 127 households in Domboni have standpipes of RDP standard, while 156 households in Tanda and 192 households in Tshikhudini are on RDP standards;
iii) 2459 households in urban areas recives free basic water;
iv) 523 households in the villages of Madimbo, Domboni, Malale, Tshikhudini and Tanda receive free basic water.
Sanitation
3.6.2. 7879 households in the urban area of Musina are connected to a waterborne sewer system or on-site septic tank system, and 2459 households benefit from free basic sanitation. 1721 households in the villages of Madimbo, Malale, Tshikhudini, Domboni and Tanda recive free basic sanitation. DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 15
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
3.6.2. Table 3. __ summaries the status of access to services in Musina Local Municipality.
Access to Services: Musina Local Municipality Services Access No Access (RDP Standard) (Below RDP Standards) Water 14 503 400 Sanitation 13 455 1448 Electricity 11 904 2999 Refuse Removal 7889 7014 Housing 10 234 4669 Telephones 12 370 2533 Source: Musina Local Municipality, Draft IDP 2012/2013
3.6.4. In Makhado Municipality access to infrastructure and social serves is as presented in the Table below. Services 2012 (129 665 2012 (129 665 Households) Households) Basic and above Below basic Water 123 100 38 204 Sanitation 25 112 8 251 Electricity 86 060 34 693 Refuse Removal 9856 119 809 Housing 110 020 16 807 Source: Musina Local Municipality, Draft IDP 2012/2013
3.6.5. The challenges with regards to services infrastructure include the following:
i) The available infrastructure is not sufficient to meet the population growth demands;
ii) The source of water is not meeting the population demand in terms of the RDP water supply standard.
3.6.6. Most rural villages are served with communal standpipes/taps and water from boreholes. These rural areas also do not have proper sanitation facilities and individual households have to construct their own pit toilets. Most pit toilets in the rural areas have been improperly constructed. Other challenges include:
i) Unauthorised water connections;
ii) Water systems are not metered and monitored on a continuous basis;
iii) Vandalism and theft of electrical infrastrucuture.
DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 16
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
3.7. Road, Rail and Air Links
3.7.1. The corridor is located next to the N1 highway, which is the main access route to and from the rest of South Africa and other countries in Southern Africa such as Zimbabwe. Linkages between the rural settlements and Musina as well as Makhado are poor due to bad road conditions of these secondary roads, and need to be enhanced through upgrading. These secondary roads should serve as local trading and tourism routes. Producers of agricultural products have difficulty in transporting their produce to markets due to poor roads.
3.7.2. The north-south railway line to Zimbabwe runs through the area, with stations in Makhado and Musina. The rail line carries both passengers and goods.
3.7.3. There are two airfields in Makhado Municipal area. There is a small civilian airfield and military airforce base in Makhado. Air linkages to other parts of South Africa and outside the country is therefore not existent.
3.8. Social Services
Health Facilities 3.8.1. Musina Municipality has two clinics; one community health centre; one District Hospital; and three satellite clinics. The challenges include:
i) Deterioration of existing health facilities;
ii) Insufficiency of health facilities;
iii) Lack of adequate number of health professionals;
iv) Long waiting periods before service could be received;
v) Inability to retain health professionals.
3.8.2. The following health facilities are provided within Makhado Municipality.
i) 3 Hospitals
ii) 1 Private Hospital
iii) 43 Clinics
iv) 7 Mobile Clinics
v) 4 Health Centres
vi) 3 Places of Safety
vii) 1 Malaria Camp.
3.8.3 Health facilities are inadequate considering the size of the local population. Facilities in urban areas are better equipped than in rural areas. The rendering of efficient services is hampared by shortage of staff and finances.
DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 17
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
Educational Facilities
3.8.4. In Musina Municipality, there are 9 secondary schools with a total enrolment of 4607 pupils; 29 primary schools with 9791 enrolled pupils. There is a high level of illiteracy in the Municipality, and there is unavailability of ABET centres to respond to the high illiteracy rate among the adult population. There is also a high backlog of classrooms.
3.8.5. The situation is not different in Makhado Municipality, where 35% of those over the age of 20 have not attended school, which is the highest in Vhembe District Municipality.
3.9 Agriculture And Industrial Development
3.9.1. The study area consists mainly of commercial farms, tourism hot spots and small-scale mining activities. A small percentage of the land is utilised for settlement purposes. The district settlement pattern is largely rural with low population which makes it extremely difficult and costly to improve levels of service delivery.
3.9.2. Although the land is fertile and well suited to agriculture, a large portion of it falls under tribal authorities which hinder development. Nevertheless, there are opportunities for developing viable, sustainable agricultural projects. Both commercial and subsistence farming occur. Beef, field crops and cotton are produced, and there is potential to develop agro-processing. Game farming is also important.
3.9.3. There is also potential for development in mining and tourism, especially eco-tourism in Mapungubwe, an important archaeological and international heritage site, is located in the Vhembe-Dongola National Park. Both Mapungubwe and Thulamela are traditional heritage sites and examples of early settlement and culture in South Africa. Tourism opportunities in the district also lie in reserves such as Madimbo-Mashakatini, which can attract a large number of tourists. It is worth noting however that the district has a relatively limited supply of both ground and surface water resources. The Limpopo River System is considered to be the life-blood of the northern Vhembe semiarid area (Vhembe District Municipality Profile. Corporative Governance and Traditional affairs; Republic of South Africa, 2012).
3.9.4. To strategically support and grow tourism in the Makhado area Tourism and Marketing Strategy has been developed. This aims to stimulate tourism growth in Makhado and also to develop opportunities and market the tourism icons and places of attractions that are found within Makhado municipality. Community tourism is also stimulated through community tourism associations (CTAs) in the area. These are operating under the name of Makhado Tourism Initiatives that receives an annual subsidy for the expenditure on tourism activities from Makhado municipality. Their office is situated at the Makhado Tourism Information centre that is found on the N1 in the building that belongs to Limpopo Tourism and Parks Board (Makhado Municipality: Draft Integrated Development Plan- 2012/13-2016/17, 2012). The key challenges in terms of agriculture in Makhado area are identified as:
DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 18
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
i) Land claim issues in the area
ii) The lack of access to initial capital
iii) The lack of marketing
iv) The lack of infrastructure for small scale farmers
3.9.5. Another area with significant contribution to output and employment in Makhado area is mining, which contributes only 2.27% of Makhado Municipality's Gross Geographic Product (GGP). There are also large coal deposits within the municipality that may be mined profitably. All these potential areas of development in agriculture and mining will require increased water supply whose exact quantities will need to be established as part of this project.
3.9.6. For Musina municipality, with half of the population residing in the urban areas around Musina town, commercial activities are almost exclusively concentrated in these areas. Opportunities therefore exist to build on the current strength of this economic node to further support the growth and expansion of businesses in this centre, thereby increasing the range of goods and services provided in the area. Musina Municipality and Musina town in particular also benefits from an advantageous strategic location in relation to the N1 and the Beitbridge and Pondrift border posts.
3.9.7. A number of local economic development priority issues were identified for the study area. These include the following:
i) Creation of an enabling environment for economic development
ii) Creation of jobs
iii) Poverty alleviation
iv) Agriculture/Agro-processing & manufacturing
v) Promotion of Tourism
vi) Promotion of Mining
vii) Supporting Small Micro and Medium Enterprises and
viii) Cooperatives development
DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 19
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
3.10 Change and Growth
3.10.1. The study area has youthful population and high unemployment and poverty. This population dynamics pose a major challenge for the area especially in terms of creation of new jobs and provision of basic infrastructure and water. There are promising economic growth areas which if properly supported will provide significant employment for the youthful labour force. The key areas are agriculture, especially commercial agriculture, mining and tourism. For most of these to develop they will however require bulk water supply. This is quite a challenge given that the current supply is not adequate even for human consumption given its limited supply in the area. The plan in supply of bulk water in the area should therefore take into consideration these population and socio economic imperatives.
3.10 Constraints, Problems and Opportunities identified
3.10.1 Constraints
. A number of constraints were identified in the study area. These include inadequate land given its distribution, low supply of water even for human consumption, and fewer economic opportunities.
3.10.2 Problems
3.10.2.1. There are a number of problems identified for the study area which have an impact on both development and supply of water in the corridor. These include the following:
i) High population growth than the economic growth rate which implies that the economy is unable to produce sufficient employment opportunities to absorb new entrants to the labour market
ii) A high relatively young and growing population which faces high unemployment rate especially in the Makhado area. Some are forced to look for employment outside the area.
iii) A high poverty rate amongst the residents of the study area.
iv) Inadequate infrastructure such as electricity, sanitation and water.
v) High HIV/AIDS prevalence
vi) High child mortality
vii) The prevalence of illegal immigration to the area
DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 20
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
viii) Lack of economic activities and investment in the area to aid with the issue of employment creation.
ix) The lack of infrastructure for small scale farmers
x) Low level of financial inclusion especially for SMME’s who need financial assistance to expand their businesses and to promote/advertise their products
xi) Lack of finance to pursue farming projects.
3.10.3 Opportunities
3.10.3.1. A number of opportunities exist in the study area, which if properly supported would lead to economic growth and human development. These include the following:
i) The area is strategically placed along the N1 and could serve as the gateway to the north through the Beitbridge and Pondrift border posts.
ii) The area has a large deposit of minerals including coal which could be profitably exploited for socio economic development of the area and employment creation.
iii) The area is a very highly attractive cultural tourism area especially with the large cultural heritage sites such as Maupungubwe.
iv) There is a good land that is fertile and well suited to agriculture. Agriculture could support agro processing industries in the region that can increase employment opportunities in the manufacturing area for the region.
DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 21
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
CHAPTER 4: HYDROLOGY AND SURFACE WATER INFRASTRUCTURE
4.1 Introduction
Water is a critical strategic natural resource. It is essential for growth and development, the environment, health and wellbeing of the people of South Africa. South Africa consists of 19 Water Management Areas contained in between the 9 provinces. There are four Water Management Areas overlaying the Limpopo Province namely: Limpopo, Luvuvhu and Letaba, Crocodile (West) and Marico and the Olifants. Refer to figure below.
Figure 4.1: Water Management Areas of South Africa (DWA, 2007)
DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 22
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
The Mutasshi-Musina Corridor lies in two Water Management Areas, i.e. the Limpopo and the Levhubu-Letaba Water Management Areas. The Limpopo Water Management Area (WMA) and Luvhuvhu- Letaba Water Management Areas are located in the north and north-eastern part of the country respectively. The Limpopo Water Management Area (WMA) represents part of the South African portion of the Limpopo Basin which is also shared by Botswana, Zimbabwe and Mozambique. Refer to figure 2 below.
Fig 4.2: Limpopo River Basin (CSIR)
DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 23
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
4.2 Climate
The Limpopo Water Management Area has a semi-arid climate, with economic activity mainly centred on livestock farming irrigation, and mining operations.
The mean annual temperature of the Limpopo Water Management Area ranges from 16° in the south to 22° in the north, with an average of 20° for the WMA as a whole. The average maximum monthly temperature is 30° in the month of January, while the average minimum monthly temperature is 4° in the month of July (Goba Moahloli Keeve Steyn (Pty) Ltd, Tlou & Matji (Pty) Ltd and Golder Associates (Pty) Ltd., 2004).
The mean annual temperature for Luvuvhu-Letaba Water Management Area ranges from about 18 °C in the mountainous areas to more than 28 °C in the northern and eastern parts of the WMA with an average of about 25.5 °C for the WMA as a whole. Maximum temperatures are experienced in January and minimum temperatures occur on average in July ( Goba Moahloli Keeve Steyn (Pty) Ltd, Tlou and Matji, Golder Associates Africa and BKS, 2004.). The Mean Annual Precipitation (MAP) in the Limpopo Water Management Area ranges widely, with rainfall ranging from as little as 200 mm/annum in the north to over 1 200 mm/annum in the Soutpansberg Mountains. In general the rainfall decreases from the south to the north, with the lowest rainfall occurring in the Limpopo valley in the north-east of the Limpopo Water Management Area (Goba Moahloli Keeve Steyn (Pty) Ltd, Tlou & Matji (Pty) Ltd and Golder Associates (Pty) Ltd., 2004).
Rainfall in the Luvhuvhu catchment is strongly seasonal and occurs mainly during the summer months (i.e. October to March) and is strongly influenced by the topography. The peak rainfall months are January and February. The mean annual precipitation varies from less than 450mm on the low lying plains (northern and eastern part of the WMA) to more than 2 300 mm at Entambeini in the Soutpansberg in the mountainous areas (south western and north western parts of the WMA). The rainfall in the Letaba catchment is largely influenced by the topography. As a result of the effects caused by the mountainous zone, mean annual precipitation (MAP) varies between 700mm and 1500mm in the mountainous zone. The annual rainfall over the remainder of the catchment ranges from 450mm to 800mm. More than 85% of the annual rainfall occurs during the summer months ( Goba Moahloli Keeve Steyn (Pty) Ltd, Tlou and Matji, Golder Associates Africa and BKS, 2004.).
DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 24
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
Annual Evaporation increases gradually from 1,400 mm in the west to 1,900 mm in the east. About 60% of the evaporation occurs during the 6 months from October to March. The average annual potential evaporation in the Province is higher than the rainfall in almost all areas. However, the rates differ from place to place depending on the topography. One of the areas with the highest rate of evaporation is around Musina. The annual rate of evaporation in Musina exceeds 2,700 mm. The average for the Province is about 1,800 mm per annum. Since the average potential evaporation is well in excess of the annual rainfall, this appreciably affects surface runoff from rainfall and causes high evaporation losses of water from storage dams. The average potential mean annual gross evaporation of Livhuvu-Letaba Water Management Area (as measured by A-pan) ranges between 1 800mm in the extreme western mountainous region to 2 400mm in the northern and eastern areas. The highest A-pan evaporation occurs in the period October to January and the lowest is in June.
Mean
Mutale
Giyani
Tzaneen
Thulamela
Municipality Letaba Annual ET Aganang MAP
Polokwane
Lephalale
Musina
Makhado
0 500 1000 1500 2000 Annual ET and MAP in mm
Figure 2: Graph with Evapotranspiration and Mean Annual Precipitation of the Municipalities (KA Tshikolomo, S Walker, AE Nesamvuni, A Stroebel, 2012)
DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 25
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
4.3 Geology
The southern and western parts of the Limpopo Water Management Area are mainly underlain by sedimentary rocks, whilst metamorphic and igneous rocks are found in the northern and eastern parts. With the exception of some alluvium deposits and dolomites near Mokopane and Thabazimbi, the formations are mostly not of high water bearing capacity. The mineral rich Bushveld Igneous Complex extends across the south-eastern part of the water management area, and precious metals are mined at various localities throughout the area. Large coal deposits are found in the north-west (MS Basson, 2003).
The geology of Luvuvhu–Letaba Water Management Area is varied and complex. It consists mainly of sedimentary rocks in the north and metamorphic and igneous rocks in the south. High quality coal deposits are found near Tshikondeni and in the northern part of the Kruger National Park, whilst the eastern limb of the mineral rich Bushveld Igneous Complex touches on the southern parts of the water management area. With the exception of sandy aquifers in the Limpopo River Valley, the formation is of relatively low water-bearing capacity. A wide spectrum of soils occur in the water management area, with sandy soils most common ( Goba Moahloli Keeve Steyn (Pty) Ltd, Tlou and Matji, Golder Associates Africa and BKS, 2004.).
4.4 Hydrology
In the Limpopo Management Area the distribution in runoff in the north/northwest area is directly associated to the higher than average rainfall in the mountainous areas of the Waterberg and Soutpansberg ranges. Catchments such as the Mokolo, which have large areas situated in the mountainous areas of the Waterberg therefore have much higher unit runoffs than catchments such as the Sand and Matlabas which are situated in predominantly flat areas of the catchment. In the Luvuvhu-Letaba Water Management Area the main rivers in the north-east/east are the Luvuvhu, Shingwedzi and Letaba rivers, which all flow in an easterly direction through the Kruger National Park. The Shingwedzi River first flows into the Rio des Elephantes (Olifants River) in Mozambique, which then joins the Limpopo River. The two main tributaries of the Letaba River, the Klein and Groot Letaba, have their confluence on the western boundary of the Kruger National Park, whilst the Letaba River flows into the Olifants River. The Letaba River catchment covers a total area of 13 400km² and the Shingwedzi River catchment covers a total area of 5 600km². The Letaba River catchment is drained by the Groot Letaba River and its major tributaries the Klein Letaba, Middle Letaba, Letsitele and Molototsi rivers. The
DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 26
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
Shingwedzi River and its major tributaries the Shisha, Mphongolo and Phugwane drain the Shingwedzi River catchment ( Goba Moahloli Keeve Steyn (Pty) Ltd, Tlou and Matji, Golder Associates Africa and BKS, 2004.).
4.5 Geohydrology
Groundwater is available and widely used throughout the two Water Management Areas, but in varying quantities depending upon the hydrogeological characteristics of the underlying aquifer. Much of the Limpopo catchment is populated with widespread rural communities. This is especially the case for the old Lebowa and Venda homeland areas. Groundwater is the main source of water supply to these rural communities although surface water is also used conjunctively where it is available. Groundwater is also used widely for irrigation. The central parts of the Luvuvhu catchment are heavily populated and widespread rural communities are a feature of the area. Many communities rely on groundwater although conjunctive use schemes (surface and groundwater) are also widespread. Parts of the Letaba catchment are heavily populated and widespread rural communities formally in Venda and Gazankulu are a feature of the area. Many communities rely on groundwater although conjunctive use schemes are also widespread. Overall the available groundwater resources within the catchment are underutilised. Even weaker groundwater occurrence areas can often provide more than 25 litres per person per day. Generally the groundwater quality is good, satisfies the DWAF water quality guidelines and is suitable for domestic and agricultural supply. However at other parts of the Limpopo Water Management Areas around Tshipise Village the water quality is a Class 4 (Unacceptable water) as it has high Nitrate and Total Dissolved Solutes (TDS) concentrations due to historic activities such as live stock farming, agriculture and mining.
4.6 Land use
Present land use in the Limpopo water management areas is characterized by patches of rain fed cultivation, with grain and cotton as main products. Irrigation developments occur at various locations in the water management areas, such as the Waterberg area, the Sand River catchment and along the Limpopo River, with much of the water being supplied from farm dams and groundwater. Small areas of commercial forest are found in the high rainfall parts of the Soutpansberg near Makhado. Most of the Limpopo water management area remains under natural vegetation, however, with livestock and game farming as main activities. Severe overgrazing is prevalent in many areas. Approximately 200 rural villages are scattered throughout the Limpopo water management area, more notably in the central parts, with little local economic activity to support these population concentrations. Polokwane is the largest
DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 27
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY urban centre in the Limpopo water management area, and Musina, Makhado, Mokopane, Mookgopong and Modimolle as main towns.
Land use in the Luvuvhu-Letaba Water Management Area includes towns, collected villages, traditional family units, cultivated lands, forests, Nature Reserves and National Parks. The agriculture of the basin consists of dry land, irrigation and livestock farming. A certain amount of game farming also takes place. The wide range of climatic conditions of the basin results in a rich diversity of agricultural production. There is substantial irrigation farming; mainly from farm dams, in the upper reaches of the river. The central basin has primarily subsistence farming on dry land. Run- of-river and borehole irrigation is also widely practiced.
Figure 3: Perceptions of municipal water managers on water restrictions across the months of the year (K A. Tshikolomo, Sue Walker, A.E. Nesamvuni,, 2012)
DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 28
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
4.7 Water infrastructures (Dams)
Limpopo Management Area
A8 Drainage Area (Nwanedzi and Nzhelele Rivers)
The Nzhelele Dam (A8R001), Luphephe (A8R002), Nwanedzi (A8R003) and Mutshedzi (A8R004) Dams were used as indicators. The Nzhelele Dam was at a storage level of 101.0% (51.724 x 106m3) in 2011 and 7.2% higher than the previous year, which means that the storage volume is 3.67 million cubic meters more than the corresponding period last year (2010). The storage level is currently at 100%.
Figure 4: Nzhelele dam indicators this year (2013), DWA Home page
Luphephe and Nwanedzi Dams were at storage levels of 100.8% and 100.2% respectively in 2011. Their combined storage is at 19.25 x 106m3. The combined storage for the corresponding period the previous year was 16.05 x 106m3 (84% of storage volume). The storage level is currently at 110%.
DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 29
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
Figure 5: Luphephe dam indicators for 2013, DWA Homepage
Figure 6: Nwanedzi dam indicators this year 2013, DWA Home page
Mutshedzi Dam was at a storage level of 90.2% (1.838 x 106m3) in 2011 and 0.2% lower than the previous year (2010). The storage level is currently at 100%.
DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 30
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
Figure 7: Mutshedzi Dam Indicators for 2013, DWA Home page
DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 31
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
Luvuvhu–Letaba Water Management Area A9 Drainage Area (Mutale, Luvuvhu Rivers)
The Albasini Dam (A9R001), Vondo Dam (A9R002) and Nandoni (A9R004) Dams were used as monitoring points in this report. Albasini Dam was at a storage level of 48.5% (13.674 x 106m3) in 2011 and 20.6% higher than the previous year (2010), which means that the storage volume was 5.81 million cubic meters more than the corresponding period last year (2010). The storage level is currently at 90%.
Figure 8: Albasini Dam indicators this year 2013, DWA Home page
Vondo Dam was at a storage level of 100.7% (30.644 x 106m3) in 2011 and 0.2% lower than the previous year (2010). The storage level is currently at 100%.
DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 32
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
Figure 9: Vondo Dam Indicators this year 2013, DWA Home page
Nandoni Dam was at a storage level of 101.6% (168.74 x 106m3) in 2011 and on the same level as the previous year 2010. See attached graphs of the above mentioned dams (D, Viljoen, 2011). The storage level is currently at 100%.
Figure 10: Nandoni Dam indicators this year 2013
B8 Drainage Area (Groot, Middle and Klein Letaba Rivers)
Middle-Letaba Dam was at a storage level of 15.5% (26.576 x 106m3) in 2011 and 8.7% higher than the previous year of 2010, which means that the storage volume is 14.88 million cubic meters more than the corresponding period last year. Currently the dam is at storage level of 50%.
DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 33
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
Figure 11: Middle-Letaba Dam indicators this year 2013, DWA Home page
The Nsami Dam was at a storage level of 67.8% (14.83 x 106m3) in 2011 and 2.3% higher than the previous year of 2010, which means that the storage volume was 0.5 million cubic meters more than the corresponding period previous year. Currently the storage level is at 80%. See attached graphs of the above mentioned dams in the Appendix by (D, Viljoen, 2011).
Figure 12: Nsami Dam indicators this year 2013, DWA Home page
DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 34
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
4.9 Discussion and Conclusion
In both water management areas high Evapotranspiration and relatively lower rainfall patterns are observed. The Climate plays a huge role in the water infrastructures. High Evapotranspiration and low rainfall have a negative influence on the water available in the infrastructure. Generally during rainy seasons, the dams reach full or above full storage capacities. The storage levels decline during the winter seasons. The decline affects communities negatively as most municipalities in the study area resort to restrictions of the water supplies from dams. It is important to note that not all the available water in the dam can be utilized as part of the water supports ecological systems.
DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 35
DEVELOPMENT OF FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE MUTASSHI/MUSINA CORRIDOR BULK WATER SUPPLY
CHAPTER 5: GROUNDWATER RESOURCES ASSESSMENT
5.1 Introduction
The development of groundwater options for the Mutasshi Development Corridor requires the review of all existing information and the use of the DWA Ground Water Resources Directed Measures (GRDM) Software to determine the potential availability of the resource. The information reviewed included the following:
Groundwater data from DWA National Groundwater Database,
Groundwater use data from WARMS data base
DWA 1:500 000 hydro-geological map series,
Hydrogeological Reports from DWA Library, and
Use of DWA Ground Water Resources Directed Measures (GRDM) software to determine reserve.
5.1 Geology and Stratigraphy
The geology and stratigraphy of the study area consists of a wide range of rock types as shown in Figure 5.1. The hatched area near Musina to the west on the N1 is underlain by Sand River Gneiss has the potential for well field development. Figure 5.2 show the areas enclosed by circles where further investigations should be carried out for potential well fields which can be recharged by the Sand River.
DRAFT FINAL REPORT Page 36
Figure 5.1 Geology of Study Area
5.2 Groundwater Potential
5.2.1 Purpose of study
The main purpose of this study is to quantify the volume of groundwater that can be abstracted from the quaternary catchments A71H and A71K groundwater resource units respectively without impacting the ability of the groundwater system to contribute to the Reserve (Basic Human Need (BHN), Ecological Water Requirement (EWR) dependent on groundwater). The following were looked into to better understand the study areas: Delineation of the study area and Location Climate Geology Geohydrology
5.2.2 Area of Study
Quaternary catchments A71H (Makhado) and A71K (Musina) are based in the Vhembe District, Limpopo Province and are in the Water Management Areas, Luvhuvu-Letaba and Limpopo respectively. The two quaternary catchments are shown below as Figure 5.1 and 5.2.
The two quaternary catchments were selected for study because they include the two major towns in the study area.
38
Figure 5.13: A71H Quaternary Catchment Locality Map, DWA 2013
39
Figure 5.14: A71H Quaternary Catchment Locality Map, DWA 2013
40
5.2.3 Mean Annual Evaporation
Figures 5.3 and 5.4 show the Mean Annual Evaporation of Quaternary Catchments A71H and A71K respectively.
Figure 5.15: A71H Mean Annual Evaporation, grdm 2011
Figure 5.16: A71K Mean Annual Evaporation, grdm 2011
The Mean Annual Evaporation (MAE) for A71H varies internally in the unit, with a minimum of 1300mm and a maximum of 1800mm. The MAE values of A71K are quite high though does not vary much within the resource unit as compared to A71H. The minimum 1800mm and a maximum 2000mm of A71H signify the arid conditions of the unit. A71H is relatively humid compared to A71K, as it can be observed that the maximum of Makhado is the actual minimum for Musina MAE.
41
5.2.4 GEOLOGY
Figure 5.17: A71H Geology, grdm 2011
Figure 5.18: A71K Geology Map, grdm 2011
The geology for both resource units generally comprises of Swazian Gneiss and some portions of sedimentary rocks such as Arenites and Shale. Makhado’s geology comprises of Basalts and Granites. Musina consists of Quartzites, Arnothosites, and Pyroxenites Serpentinites.
5.2.5 DELINEATION OF GROUNDWATER MANAGEMENT UNITS
Quaternary catchments are used as the primary delineation of water resource units in RDM assessments. In the case of desktop or rapid assessments, insufficient information will be available for refining resource units further, and most assessments will therefore be based on quaternary catchments.
42
5.2.6 RESOURCE CLASSIFICATION
Basic Human Needs
There are 79060 in A71H and 20680 A71K people respectively in the quaternary catchments according to GRDM. The basic human need volume of water per person for a day is 25 litres. It is assumed that all the persons within the catchment use the ground water as sourceof water.
Base Flow Determination
Figure 5.19: Baseflow map of South Africa
Base flow is that part of the runoff in a river which is not the direct consequence of a rainfall event. Base flow can be considered as the outflow of the groundwater reservoir feeding the river during rainless periods. The groundwater reservoir has a much greater retention and retarding effect than the catchment. The groundwater reservoir is assumed to react like a single linear reservoir, in that the flow recession curve shows a lower level. The groundwater reservoir is refilled by infiltrating precipitation manly in the rainy seasons, the recession curve then restarts at a higher level. As recharge and discharge of groundwater are relatively slow processes, the base flow curve may be stimulated with monthly values. (K.Frochlich&W.Frohlic, 1994). The Herold method (Herold, 1980) is used in the GRDM Assessment Software to determine the groundwater contribution to flow in a river. The baseflow displayed above shows that the groundwater contribution to flow in the river is 0.01 Mm3, which is very low. The value is within range when compared to the baseflow map above. 43
Figure 5.20: Baseflow of A71H, grdm 2011
Figure 5.21: Baseflow of A71K, grdm 2011
5.2.7 RECHARGE
Recharge is defined as the addition of water to the zone of saturation. Generally, this only includes contributions from precipitation, but penetration into the subsurface from rivers, dams and wetlands can be substantial under specific and normally localised conditions. Aquifers can also be recharged by inflow from adjacent groundwater bodies. 44
Recharge is one of the most important parameters in assessing the sustainable volume of groundwater that can be abstracted from an aquifer system. Unfortunately, it is also difficult to quantify because of rainfall variability and aquifer heterogeneities. It is beyond the scope of this training manual to provide training in methodologies used to quantify recharge, as this requires a high level of geohydrological expertise and judgement. However, guidance is given regarding where information can be obtained and which tools can be used for estimating recharge. (PhD, Johan Wentzel, 2009 July)
Figure 5.22: Groundwater recharge map of South Africa, Vegter 1995
45
Chloride Method
The chloride content of the groundwater was calculated using the Harmonic Mean of the groundwater samples of the boreholes within the study area. The chloride values that were used to calculate the harmonic mean for the resource unit was obtained from these chemistry sampling boreholes information was provided by the Georequest.
Figure 5.23: A71H Recharge value by Chlorine method
Figure 5.24: A71K Recharge value by Chlorine method
46
Figure 5.25: Groundwater Chloride Map of South Africa, DWAF 2007
5.2.8 RESERVE QUANTIFICATION
The groundwater component of the Reserve is the part of the groundwater resource that sustains basic human needs and in some instances contributes to EWR. Because groundwater is far more widespread geographically than surface water resources, that component of the geohydrological system which sustains the Reserve is only a part of the greater system considered under GRDM. To be able to quantify the groundwater component of the Reserve, we need to be able to estimate the volume of groundwater needed to BHN and groundwater contributing to EWR (GRDM Manual, 2005).
To be able to do the groundwater reserve for the unit areas, the groundwater must firstly be allocated for compulsory basics i.e. the basic human need (BHN) and contribution of groundwater to Baseflow without any abstraction taking place. The equation below is used to calculate the groundwater allocation.
GWallocate = (Re + GWin – GWout) – BHN – GWBf
Where:
GWallocate = groundwater allocation
Re = recharge
GWin = groundwater inflow
GWout = groundwater outflow
BHN = basic human needs (25 l/d)
GWBf = groundwater contribution to Baseflow
EWR = Ecological Water Reserve (quantified using SPATSIM software) 47
Therefore the Allocable volume for A71H:
GWallocate = (Re + GWin – GWout) – BHN -EWR– GWBf
= (14.34) – (0.72) - (0.01)-0.97
= 14.34 – (0.72+0.01+0.97)
= 14.34- 1.7
= 12.64Mm3/a
Therefore the Allocable volume for A71K:
GWallocate = (Re + GWin – GWout) – BHN -EWR– GWBf
= (9.53) – (0.19) - (0.35)-0.38
= 9.53 – (0.19+0.35+0.38)
= 9.53- 0.92
= 11.39Mm3/a
Figure 5.26: A71H Reserve quantification, grdm 2011
48
Figure 5.27: A71K Reserve quantification, grdm 2011
5.2.9 STRESS INDEX To provide a quantitative means of defining stress, a groundwater stress index was developed by dividing the volume of groundwater abstracted from a groundwater unit by the estimated recharge to that unit. If the stress index of a unit is more than 0.65, then the appropriate higher category is awarded (A, B, C or D). The lowest permissible category is D, since it is the lowest limit of sustainability. In many cases it is quite obvious when a resource is being over-used or is stressed, as these conditions manifest themselves as declining groundwater levels, worsening groundwater quality, reduced spring and baseflow, heightened levels of conflict in a catchment etc. Assessment of less impacted units can be more difficult as the signs of impact are less obvious. The stress index is calculated using the following equation:
Stress Index: Groundwater Abstraction/Recharge
The concept of stressed water resources is addressed by the National Water Act, but is not defined. Part 8 of the Act gives some guidance by providing the following qualitative examples of ‘water stress’ (GRDM 2010)
Where demands for water are approaching or exceed the available supply; Where water quality problems are imminent or already exist; or Where water resource quality is under threat.
49
Table 1: Guide for determining the level of stress of a groundwater unit
PRESENT STRESS INDEX
(abstraction / STATUS recharge)
CATEGORY DESCRIBTION
A < 0.05 Unstressed or slightly B stressed 0.05–0.20
C 0.20–0.40
D Moderately stressed 0.40–0.65
E Highly stressed 0.65–0.95
F Critically stressed > 0.95
The Stress Index calculation for A71H:
Stress Index: Groundwater Abstraction/Recharge
= (4.74 Mm3/a) / (14.34 Mm3/a)
= 0.33
The Stress Index calculation for A71K:
Stress Index: Groundwater Abstraction/Recharge
= (1.48 Mm3/a) / (9.53 Mm3/a)
= 0.16
The Stress Index for both resource units not highly or critically stressed. A71H is classified present status category C moderately stressed, with Stress Index of 0.33 which is within the range of 0.20-0.40. A71K is classified present status category B unstressed or slightly stressed, with Stress Index of 0.16 which is within the range of 0.05-0.20.
50
5.2.10 VULNERABILITY AND ABSTRACTION
Figure 28: Aquifer Vulnerability of South Africa
Vulnerability of an aquifer is defined as the sensitivity of groundwater quality to an imposed contaminant load, which is determined by the intrinsic characteristics of the aquifer where the abstraction is based on the total groundwater use in the area. This is different to the expression pollution risk which depends on vulnerability as well as on the existence of pollutants entering the subsurface.
Groundwater protection requires information on groundwater vulnerability. Maps showing the lateral distribution of well protected and poorly protected aquifers are therefore essential for spatial development. These maps are called vulnerability maps. The vulnerability of the aquifers in which the study areas of the resource units are based is the least to moderate according to the vulnerability map above.
5.2.11 AVAILABLE WATER RESOURCES
According to the calculations done, the resource units have enough water. New ground water infrastructures can be developed where there are water crisis and surface water is not available. However, such activities should be performed taking in line with the Water Act of South Africa in mind. With the complex geology of the quaternary catchments, proper geophysics studies should be done. Consistent groundwater management should be enforced to avoid over abstraction that could result in the resource units being overly stressed.
WATER RESOURCE DEMAND CENTERS 51
CHAPTER 6: WATER SOURCES IN THE STUDY AREA
The main water sources in the study area are the unconsolidated alluvial aquifer under the Limpopo riverbed, and the Nzhelele dam.
6.1 Unconsolidated Alluvial Aquifer under the Limpopo Riverbed
The unconsolidated alluvial aquifer under the Limpopo riverbed stretches from the confluence of the Shashe river and the weir immediately downstream of the bridge across the Limpopo river in Bietbridge. This aquifer forms part of the Limpopo river basin which is governed the SADC Protocol on Shared Watercourses. Conformity to the Protocol is monitored by the Limpopo River Basin Commission which was established in November 2003 which unfortunately is not very active at present. Large volumes of water are currently being abstracted from the Limpopo alluvial aquifer without the requisite monitoring and control measures in place.
The aquifer is recharged by the river flows from the catchments shown in Figure 6.1 in Botswana, South Africa and Zimbabwe.
There has been a sustained reduction in river flows in upper reaches of the Limpopo due to large scale water abstraction for domestic, industrial, irrigation, mining and power generation use in the Gauteng and in the North West Provinces of South Africa and in the Southern, South East, Kgatleng and Kweneng Districts in Botswana . The flows will be further reduced by the construction of Lestibogo Dam on the Mohloutse River (100 million cubic meter storage) and the Dikgahlong Dam (400 Million cubic meter storage) on the Shashe river in Botswana both tributaries to the Limpopo River.
6.2 Nzhelele Dam
Nzhelele Dam is located on the Nzhelele River and has a capacity of 55.3 million cubic meters. The dam was primarily built for irrigation purposes but also serves as a source of water for domestic use. The water in the dam is over allocated and some farmers have had their allocations reduced in order to accommodate new users.
There are substantial losses in the water conveyance systems which if attended will result in substantial savings.
6.3 Other Potential Sources
Analysis by the Ground Resource Modelling Software Shows that the are potential water resources in the Quartenary catchment
6.3 Alternative Water Sources
6.3.1 Zhove Dam on Umzingwane River - Zimbabwe
It has been established that 30 million m3 per annum raw water could be purchased from the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA). The water source is the Zhove Dam on the Umzingwane River, a tributary of the Limpopo River. The water will be abstracted as surface water from the Limpopo on the Zimbabwe river banks as the water is released from the Zhove Dam
52
The 30 million m3 per annum is adequate to meet the all the needs for the Great Soutpansberg Coalfield, provide for the current 4.8 million cubic metres per annum shortfall being experienced by the Nzhelele Valley Irrigation Farmers Association, and allow the farmers to bring under irrigation an additional 3000 hectares of citrus trees with the realisation of an additional R1 billion per annum in revenue when the plants mature as well as creation of employment.
(CSIR)
Figure 6.1: Limpopo River catchment upstream of the aquifer in the study area
6.3.2 Zambezi River
Zimbabwe currently abstracts water downstream of the Victoria Falls for the Hwange Thermal Power Station. Zimbabwe has plans to abstract water from the Zambezi River for domestic and industrial use in Bulawayo and eventually to Beit-Bridge. The project will also provide water for substantial Irrigation Projects between the Zambezi river and Bulawayo.
Botswana is carrying out a feasibility study for commercial irrigation of 400 000 hectares in the Pandamatenga area water abstracted from the Zambezi and the provision of a pipeline from Pandamatenga to eventually join the North South Carrier transferring the water to all the towns in the east of Botswana down to Lobatse.
The Zambezi River has the capacity to provide irrigation water for 100 000 hectares as proposed by the Nzhelele Valley Irrigation Farmers Association
53
It would be logical for the three countries to join forces and transfer water from the Zambezi to the Shashe river whilst providing water to Bulawayo. The Shashe river flow will provide water for the North South Carrier in Botswana and the 100 000 hectares irrigation in the study area. Alternatively a pipeline could be built from Bulawayo to Bietbridge to the study area.
CHAPTER 7: WATER DEMAND CENTRES
The main water demand centres in the study area include the following;
Weipe farms including nearby farms in Botswana and in Zimbabwe,
Venetia Mine,
Vele Mine,
Musina Town,
Nzhelle Valley Farms, and
Proposed Great Soutpansberg Coalfield north of the Soutpansberg Mountains.
7.1 Weipe/Pontdrift Farms
The Weipe/Pontdrift Farms in South Africa, the Talana Farms in Botswana and the Zimbabwe farms which are all adjacent to the confluence of the Shashe and Limpopo rivers abstract water from the alluvial aquifer under the riverbed to irrigate an estimated total 6500 hectares.
It is estimated that at least 60 million cubic metres per annum are abstracted from the alluvial aquifer for irrigation on these farms. There is no coordinated monitoring of the abstraction between the riparian states.
7.2 Venetia Mine
Venetia Mine has an allocation of 5.7 million cubic meters per year from the Limpopo alluvial aquifer but at present only uses 4.2 million cubic meters per year.
Venetia Mine reports that it is constantly improving its kimberlite processing resulting in reduced water requirements. Venetia Mine’s water requirements are not likely to increase in the next 30 years (De Beers).
7.3 Vele Colliery
Vele Colliery is an open cast coal mine with a 30 year mine life producing 12.9 million tons ROM per annum from which it sells 2.5 million tons of coking coal to Accellor Mittal and exports 2.5 Million tons as thermal coal. (Coal of Africa)
54
Vele Colliery has water rights for 2.7 million cubic metres per annum from the Limpopo River and alluvial aquifer. It also has an off river flood water storage dam with a capacity of 1million cubic metres.
The Colliery operates a “closed” water utilisation system and its water requirements are not likely to increase over the planning period. (Coal Of Africa)
7.4 Musina Town
Table 7.1 shows the water sales volumes for the 2013/2013 financial year.
Table 7.1 : Water Consumption for Musina Town
Description Jul- 12 A ug - 12 Sep - 12 Oct - 12 N o v- 12 D ec- 12 Jan- 13 F eb - 13 M ar- 13 A p r- 13 M ay- 13 Jun- 13 TOTAL
DOM ESTIC 223 501.00 205 902.00 200 927.00 230 095.00 192 069.00 193 850.00 238 247.00 271 860.00 132 660.00 195 081.00 215 004.00 223 639.00 2 522 835.00
INDUSTRIAL 2 464.00 2 186.00 2 112.00 2 379.00 2 063.00 1 962.00 2 085.00 3 559.00 2 391.00 2 220.00 3 237.00 2 984.00 29 642.00
COM M ERCIAL 74 523.00 66 089.00 90 272.00 81 881.00 69 462.00 107 732.00 87 392.00 90 685.00 1 108 427.00 92 280.00 113 318.00 181 506.00 2 163 567.00
INSTITUTIONAL 7 206.00 5 459.00 4 114.00 3 860.00 2 402.00 2 941.00 6 008.00 3 015.00 3 675.00 4 629.00 7 737.00 5 739.00 56 785.00
TOTAL 307 694.00 279 636.00 297 425.00 318 215.00 265 996.00 306 485.00 333 732.00 369 119.00 1 247 153.00 294 210.00 339 296.00 413 868.00 4 772 829.00
The table shows that 52.86% of the water is for domestic, 45.33% is for commercial use, 1.19% for institutional use and 0.62% for industrial use.
The population of Musina Town in 2011 was 43500. Population projections for low and high growth scenarios for 2013 are 44 286 and 44 418 respectively. For the gross water consumption of 5 250 112 Million cubic meters, allowing for 10% losses, the average 2013 per capita domestic water consumption is 171l/c/d and a the average annual gross water consumption for Musina Town is 324l/c/d.
The recommended range for residential consumption is 250l/c/d for highly developed areas and 130l/c/d for moderate to highly developed areas. The per capita consumption for domestic water consumption of 171l/c/d is of the correct order of magnitude. The commercial consumption of 2.164 million cubic meters per annum appears high and needs to be investigated further.
The 2035 population under low and high growth scenarios is 53 935 and 55 893 respectively and the corresponding water demand is 6.38 million cubic meters per annum and 6.60million cubic meters per annum respectively.
The proposed Eco- Industrial park is designed such that there is extensive water recycling and will result in minimal additional water demand for Musina Town.
The timing and scope of the transport hub, inland port and supply centre is not fully understood but can be conservatively estimated at 20% addition in demand which under low and high growth scenarios becomes 7.65million cubic meters per annum and 7.93million cubic meters per annum.
Musina should be able to abstract the 10.4million cubic meters per annum allocated from the alluvial aquifer because of the assured recharge as a result of the weir constructed downstream of the bridge over the Limpopo river in Bietbridge. The town’s allocation of 10.4million cubic meters per annum is in excess of the 7.93 million cubic meters required under the high growth scenario for 2035. Musina Town water supply will not require augmentation up to 2035.
55
7.5 Nzhelele Valley Farms
Consultations with the Nzhelele Valley Irrigation Farmer’s Association provided the following information:
i) Citrus irrigation farmers are receiving 75% of their water requirements per hectare and are short by 1600m³ per hectare per annum for the 3000 hectares under irrigation, ie there is currently a shortfall of 4.8million cubic meters per year.
ii) Farmers can expand the irrigated area by 3000 hectares in the short term if water was available, because the climate and soils are ideal citrus irrigation farming. ie there is supressed demand equal to 30 million cubic meters per year.
iii) Expansion of the citrus irrigation to 100 000 hectares is commercially viable provided 100 000 000 million cubic metres of water per annum is made available. The current revenue from the 3000 hectare citrus irrigation is R1 billion per annum and this amount could be increased more than thirty times.
iv) Expansion of the citrus irrigation to 100 000 hectares can create 10 000 direct jobs at one job per ten hectares, a very conservative estimate. There will also be downstream jobs created.
7.6 Greater Soutpansberg Coalfield
The table below shows the different coal related projects by Coal of Africa and the various stages of development.
Table 7. 2: Greater Soutpansberg Coalfield Projects
STAGE OF PROJECT COAL FIELD DEVELOPMENT
Feasibility Stage Makhado Greater Soutpansberg
Pre –feasibility Stage Telema & Gray Greater Soutpansberg
Pre –feasibility Stage Tshipise Energy Project Greater Soutpansberg – Coal Bed Methane Resource Definition i)Chapudi Greater Soutpansberg ii)Voorburg Advanced i) Mount Stuart ii) Jutland Greater Soutpansberg Exploration Early Exploration Chapudi West Greater Soutpansberg
Identified Target i) Wilderbeesthoek Greater Soutpansberg ii) General
Figure 7.1 shows the strategic location of the Great Soutpansberg Coalfield with respect to roads (N1 and R523), the railway line as well as ESKOM power supply. 56
Figure 7.1: Strategic Location of the Great Soutpansberg Coalfield
Figure 7.2 shows the projected water demand for the Greater Soutpansberg Coalfields until 2044. There are no viable water sources to meet the demand. The only alternative is for the developers pay farmers for their allocations in the Nzhelele Dam.
57
Figure 7.2: Projected water demand for the Great Soutpansberg Coalfield.
Figure 7.3 shows the location of the different projects under the Great Soutpansberg coal fields.
Figure 7.3 : Location of the different projects under the Great Soutpansberg Coalfields.
58
REFERENCES Makhado Municipality (2011): Local Economic Development Plan.
Makhado Municipality (2012). Draft Integrated Development Plan. 2012/13-2016/17.
Musina Local Municipality (2012). Draft Integrated Development Plan (IDP): 2012/13-2017
Musina Local Municipality (2011). 2011-12 Annual Performance Report.
Republic of South Africa (2012). Vhembe District Municipality Profile. Corporative Governance and Traditional affairs; Republic of South Africa.
Goba Moahloli Keeve Steyn (Pty) Ltd, Tlou and Matji, Golder Associates Africa and BKS. (2004.). Luvuvhu/Letaba Water Management Area: Internal Strategic Perspective. South Africa: Department of Water Affairs and Forestry .
D, Viljoen. (2011). LIMPOPO PROVINCE WATER RESOURCE INFORMATION: STATUS ON MONITORING & SURFACE WATER LEVEL TRENDS. DWAF.
DWA. (2007). Guidelines for the development of Catchment Management Strategies in South Africa.
Goba Moahloli Keeve Steyn (Pty) Ltd, Tlou & Matji (Pty) Ltd and Golder Associates (Pty) Ltd. (2004). Internal Strategic Perspective: Limpopo Water Management Area. Directorate: National Water Resource Planning. South Africa: Department of Water Affairs and Forestry.
K A. Tshikolomo, Sue Walker, A.E. Nesamvuni,. (2012). Perceptions of Municipal Water Managers of Limpopo and Luvuvhu-Letaba Water Management Areas on Water Resources, Uses and Restrictions. South Africa: International Journal of Business and Social Science.
KA Tshikolomo, S Walker, AE Nesamvuni, A Stroebel. (2012). Runoff and storage capacity of Municipalities and Rivers of Limpopo and Luvuvhu-Letaba Water Management areas of South Africa. South Africa.
MS Basson, J. R. (2003). Limpopo Water Management Areas Overview of Water Resources Availability and Utilization. South Africa: DWAF.
SRK Consulting. (2011). FIRST ORDER RECONCILIATION STRATEGY MAKHADO REGIONAL WATER SUPPLY SCHEME. South Africa: DWA: National Water Resource Planning.
PhD, Johan Wentzel. (2009 July). Groundwater Resource Directed Measures, GRDM Training Manual.
Saexplorer. (n.d.). http://www.saexplorer.co.za/south-africa/climate/hofmeyr_climate.asp. Retrieved November 25, 2013
Schulze R E, M. M.-T. (1997). South African Atlas of Agrohydrology and -Climatology. Water Research Commission Report No. TT82/96.
59
J. R., Vegter. (1995). An explanation of a set of recharge groundwater maps, WRC report TT 74/95. . Pretoria: Water Research Commission.
Holmes, S. (1996). Department of Water Affairs and Forestry. South African Water Quality. DWAF. Pretoria: CSIR Environmental Services.
GRDM Software. (2011).
60