Dr Phophi Ramathuba’s Hi Nwa Mati program brings water to villages

We are excited to share that our “Hi Nwa Mati” program is now fully operational across Limpopo Province. This vital initiative is dedicated to ensuring that every single village and household within our beautiful province gains reliable access to clean, safe water, taking on the challenge one community and one home at a time.

Key programme details

• Programme name: Hi Nwa Mati (which means “Drink Water” in Xitsonga).
• Objective: To provide universal access to water for all villages and households in Limpopo.
• Approach: A targeted, phased strategy, focusing on one village and then one household at a time until the entire province is covered.
• Champion: Dr. Phophi Ramathuba, the esteemed Premier of Limpopo Province, is personally overseeing this critical government endeavour.
• Location: The entire Limpopo Province, South Africa.
• Commitment date (as tweeted): October 18, 2025, reaffirming the ongoing dedication to this long-term goal.

A province-wide commitment to water access

As Premier of Limpopo, I, Dr. Phophi Ramathuba, am incredibly proud of the progress we are making with our “Hi Nwa Mati” program. This isn’t just another project; it’s a fundamental commitment to the health, dignity, and economic well-being of every person in our province. We understand that access to clean water is a basic human right and a cornerstone for community development. That is why our teams are diligently working across Limpopo, reaching out to villages and individual households to implement sustainable water solutions.

Our strategy is clear and deliberate: we tackle the challenge one village at a time, ensuring that the solutions are tailored to the specific needs of each community. This careful, measured approach allows us to address the unique geographical and logistical challenges that our diverse province presents. From drilling boreholes to upgrading infrastructure and establishing distribution networks, every step is taken with precision and dedication. We believe that by focusing on “one household at a time,” we can truly make a lasting impact on the lives of our people.

This initiative reflects our provincial government’s unwavering resolve to overcome the historical imbalances and ensure that no community is left behind. We are collaborating with various stakeholders and utilising both conventional and innovative methods to bring water closer to the people. For more detailed information on our government’s broader initiatives and progress, please visit the official Limpopo Provincial Government website at www.limpopo.gov.za. We are committed to transparency and regular updates on this vital program and many others. You can also find the latest news and announcements directly from the Premier’s Office by visiting our dedicated news section.

Questions and answers for the public

What is the “Hi Nwa Mati” programme?

The “Hi Nwa Mati” programme is a provincial initiative led by Dr. Phophi Ramathuba, the Premier of Limpopo, aimed at providing all villages and households in Limpopo with access to clean and safe water.

How does the programme work to provide water?

The programme works by addressing one village and one household at a time, using a systematic approach to implement water solutions such as drilling boreholes, upgrading infrastructure, and establishing distribution networks.

Which areas are currently being prioritised?

While the goal is to reach all areas, specific prioritisation is based on assessments of critical need and existing water scarcity. Details on current focus areas are regularly communicated through local municipal offices and provincial government channels.

How can my village or household apply for water access through this programme?

Villages and households do not need to “apply” in the traditional sense. The programme’s teams conduct assessments across the province to identify areas of need. We encourage community leaders to liaise with their local municipalities regarding water infrastructure challenges.

Is there a cost involved for households to receive water from this programme?

The primary aim of “Hi Nwa Mati” is to provide basic access to water. Specific details regarding any tariffs for water consumption post-installation would fall under the local municipal water services, but the initial provision of infrastructure is part of the government’s commitment.

How long will it take for all villages in Limpopo to have water access?

Providing water to all villages is a significant, long-term commitment. While a precise timeline cannot be given due to the scale and complexity, the Premier’s office is committed to consistent and sustained progress until the goal is achieved.

Who is responsible for maintaining the new water infrastructure?

The long-term maintenance and sustainability of the new water infrastructure will be managed by the relevant local municipalities and water boards, with ongoing oversight and support from the provincial government.

Where can I find updates on the programme’s progress?

Updates on the “Hi Nwa Mati” programme and other provincial initiatives are regularly shared on the Limpopo Provincial Government website at www.limpopo.gov.za, and specific news from the Premier’s Office can be found at our news section.