Residents of Imizamo Yethu in Hout Bay are benefiting from improved sanitation services following a R1.8 million investment that delivered 110 new full flush toilets and 34 taps to the community.
The upgrades form part of broader efforts by the City’s Water and Sanitation Directorate to improve access to reliable and dignified basic services across informal settlements.
Since July 2025, more than 3 600 toilets have been installed city-wide through projects led by the Informal Settlements and Basic Services Branch (ISBS). During the same period, support teams have carried out nearly 5 000 repair and maintenance interventions to ensure sanitation infrastructure remains functional.
The latest investment in Imizamo Yethu involved replacing ageing infrastructure that had deteriorated due to vandalism, misuse and general wear over time. Old structures were removed and replaced with new precast concrete toilets, along with upgraded taps to improve access to clean water.
Mayoral Committee Member for Water and Sanitation, Councillor Zahid Badroodien, said improving sanitation services remains a priority in supporting public health and community wellbeing.
He noted that the new facilities complement existing services in the area, which already include 338 full flush toilets, 132 chemical toilets and 68 portable flush toilets.
Full flush toilets are installed where site conditions allow, as they are easier to maintain, more environmentally sustainable and provide a more dignified sanitation solution.
The project has also created employment opportunities for local residents. A total of 24 janitors have been appointed through the Expanded Public Works Programme to help maintain the facilities. In addition to cleaning duties, janitors assist by reporting faults, helping maintenance teams respond more efficiently.
The recent upgrades focused on areas including Donsteyakhe, Imizamo Yethu SAPS, Penzance, Depotsite TRA and Huguenot.
Further sanitation projects are planned for rollout between April and June 2026 in Philippi, Gugulethu, Delft, Khayelitsha, Strand and Langa as part of ongoing efforts to expand access to basic services across the city.
