Midrand: President Cyril Ramaphosa has commended the Department of Water and Sanitation for its ongoing efforts to improve water and sanitation access in the country. Delivering the keynote address at the Water and Sanitation Indaba currently underway at Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, Gauteng, the President highlighted that through the department’s efforts, progress has been made towards meeting the minimum standards for the provision of water and sanitation services, and in addressing connection backlogs.
According to South African Government News Agency, the President noted that the National Water Act of 1998 has been pivotal in facilitating access to adequate water and sanitation. Census 2022 results show that access to clean water stood at 88.5% and access to improved sanitation at 80.7% in 2022. The President emphasized the increase in water infrastructure initiatives, including the National Infrastructure Fund, which has secured R23 billion for significant projects such as Phase 2 of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project and work on the uMkhomazi Dam. Preparations are underway for the Ntabelanga Dam on the uMzimvubu River.
The Indaba, held under the theme ‘Water Security and Provision’, underscores the government’s commitment to addressing South Africa’s water security challenges. The gathering coincides with National Water Month and Human Rights Month, highlighting the importance of water as a fundamental human right and a critical resource for socio-economic development.
While acknowledging progress, President Ramaphosa pointed out the challenges that persist in achieving clean water and sanitation for all, as outlined in Sustainable Development Goal 6. He mentioned issues such as aging infrastructure, vandalism, illegal connections, and organized crime in the water sector. Financial mismanagement and high levels of physical water losses at the local government level further compound these challenges. The President noted a decline in private sector investment in water infrastructure, although this trend is now improving. He also highlighted investigations by the Special Investigating Unit into several water boards for corruption and fraud, stressing the urgency of addressing these issues in a water-scarce country.