The Committee views rural development as one of the urgent priorities of government, and notes that some of the water scheme projects that are not funded are in rural areas. Their funding from the fiscus would support government's commitment to develop rural areas, since farming activities are expected to be at the centre of rural development. These farming activities would create self employment and create more job opportunities that are much needed by rural youth. It is the Committee's view that funds should have been directed to these programmes in support of government priorities and to ensure participation of rural communities in the country's economic activities. Furthermore, in interacting with the Department, it became evident that additional funding for the refurbishment of water infrastructure might not adequately cover the maintenance needs of infrastructure. The lack of sufficient funding in this area introduces new risks of collapse in infrastructure. If funds are not made available for the maintenance of water infrastructure this might lead to challenges similar to those experienced during the electricity crisis.