Knysna Municipality has made substantial progress in its waste management and infrastructure initiatives as outlined in the latest Consolidated Executive Obligations Monitoring and Enforcement Framework. These efforts are part of the municipality’s ongoing strategy to enhance service delivery, environmental compliance and infrastructure sustainability, guided by the Section 154 Diagnostic Report and accompanying Support Plan adopted in March this year.
Executive Mayor Aubrey Tsengwa explained that significant strides had been taken in the area of waste management. “The waste transfer station is now operating at full capacity, with all incoming waste containerised daily and transported to the PetroSA facility, ensuring no external stockpiling,” he said. “Repairs to critical equipment such as the conveyor belt and hydraulic cylinder have been completed. Regular inspections of stormwater channels and odour management systems ensure that environmental pollution is mitigated and the site remains clean. Our efforts are clearly paying off, as we achieved a compliance score of 91% in the most recent external audit conducted by Delta Built Environmental Consultants.”
“Progress in sewerage and wastewater management has been equally noteworthy,” Tsengwa continued. “Emergency repairs and refurbishments at the Knysna wastewater treatment works are well underway, with procurement processes for critical spares and equipment nearing completion. Heavy-duty lids have been installed at key manhole locations along the Bigai River sewer line to reduce vandalism and prevent unauthorised access. Blockages in high-priority areas such as the Hunters Home and Hornlee residential zones have been resolved. These areas are inspected weekly and a rapid-response system is in place to address any future incidents.”
The municipality has also demonstrated foresight in proactive infrastructure development. Preparations for the construction of a new northern wastewater treatment works (WWTW) are progressing, with consultant engineers appointed and a technical report outlining the R116 million project submitted for national grant funding. Efforts are underway to address stormwater ingress into sewer systems, with a detailed study and action plan in development. Meanwhile, the recycling program in Sedgefield continues to promote source separation at households to support waste reduction efforts.
Tsengwa confirmed that service providers for waste transportation, pest control and other essential services are paid within the prescribed 30-day timeline to maintain service continuity and compliance. “Lease payments for municipal sites, including the waste transfer station, are fully reconciled and up to date, reflecting sound financial governance.
“While we have achieved key milestones, we recognise the challenges that lie ahead. These include the need for further investment in our wastewater infrastructure and measures to address unauthorised access and unlawful occupation at key facilities. There is also an ongoing need for collaboration and community involvement,” he said. “I urge residents to support these efforts by adhering to waste collection schedules, participating in recycling programs and reporting any illegal activities at municipal facilities.”
The municipality is actively engaging stakeholders, including provincial and national government, to secure funding and technical support for long-term projects. Initiatives like the Knysna Estuary stormwater management plan and capacity expansion at the WWTW are vital for maintaining ecological integrity and meeting growing service demands.
“We are proud of the progress we have made in these areas,” Tsengwa concluded. “The challenges have been significant, but the dedication of municipal teams, external partners and the broader community underscores our shared commitment to building a cleaner, more sustainable Knysna. We remain steadfast in our commitment to improving services and infrastructure for the benefit of all our residents.”