DWS provides update on the progress made on the work underway to raise of Clanwilliam Dam

Clanwilliam: On Thursday, 07 August 2025, the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) led by the Acting Deputy Director-General for Infrastructure Management, Mr Livhuwani Mabuda provided an update to the the Western Cape Provincial Government and the members of the Council of Provinces on the progress made in the raising of Clanwilliam Dam. This is part of the departmental commitment to transparency and accountability.

The almost R6 billion project, is a significant investment in the West Coast Region and is Planned to be completed in May 2029. It involves raising the dam by 13 metres and this will almost triple its water yield and bring economic spinoffs for the region. The main beneficiaries will be local farmers, households and emerging farmers. During the construction phase, the project is expected to generate substantial economic opportunities for regional entrepreneurs.

Mr Mabuda briefed the delegation on the progress made with regard the engineering work of raising the dam wall and this include:

• Overall progress of raising the dam wall that is at 26%
• That the current main focus is on the intake coffer wall

DWS Further provided update on the recent release of water to lower the levels of Clanwilliam Dam from 95% to 75%, that kickstarted last week, after heavy rains which affected the construction work on site. The decision to reduce the dam level was necessary to enable the construction of the coffer wall, which supports the erection of the 56-metre-high intake tower situated upstream of the dam wall. The intake tower is a critical component of the project and lies on its critical path. Its construction involves 18 months of excavation work, followed by 20 months of tower construction, totalling 38 months.

The latest update on lowering the dam levels of Clanwilliam is as follows:

• The dam levels is currently at 77% and the release of water should be completed in the next 24 hours
• There are no reports of disruptions of water supply downstream during the lowering of the dam
• No report of loss of life or damage to property
• The coffer dam has since dried and the construction activity has resumed

The MEC for Local Government Anton Bredell and the Executive leadership present was impressed with progress made with regards to the implementation of the project, however urged the department to hold on its promise constant communication. He further encouraged the department to start working together with all stakeholders and regarding the bulk water conveyancing. He advised that the department should explore mechanism that would minimise the risk of illegal water use and evaporation.

The Department is closely monitoring the raising of Clanwilliam Dam project and wishes to re-assure all users and affected stakeholders of its commitment to maintaining transparency and accountability throughout the construction period of the project.

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