Pretoria, South Africa – The National Assembly today held a mini-plenary to discuss what has been termed a water provision crisis in South Africa. The debate, proposed by the Chief Whip of the Economic Freedom Fighters, Mr. Floyd Shivambu, highlighted various aspects of the current situation and potential solutions.
According to Parliament of South Africa, the crisis is man-made and not due to natural disasters. He emphasized that lack of access to potable water in certain areas is inexcusable. The National State of Water Report of 2022 was cited, pointing to aging and dysfunctional water infrastructure contributing to significant water losses.
Mr. Shivambu also referenced the National Water and Sanitation Master Plan, expressing concerns about the state of wastewater treatment systems in the country and the potential water deficit by 2030. He attributed these issues to the mismanagement of water resources and lack of skills, placing responsibility on the ruling party.
Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation, Mr. David Mahlobo, acknowledged the challenges and outlined ongoing interventions. He affirmed that nationally, South Africa does not face water scarcity but admitted to localized deficits due to climate change, as seen in Nelson Mandela Bay and parts of Gauteng. He noted that 90% of South Africans have access to water and that improvements have been made in reducing waterborne diseases and easing the burden historically placed on women and children.
Mr. Mahlobo also acknowledged issues with municipal water distribution systems and the deterioration of water quality due to human activities. He mentioned progress in implementing water supply development projects, including the Lesotho Highlands Phase 2 Project.
NA member Ms. Mookgo Matuba (ANC) reminded members of the massive water infrastructure projects since 1994 aimed at addressing unequal access. She stressed the need for communities to take ownership of these assets.
Mr. Leon Basson (DA) called for South Africans to become water-wise and for the government to raise public awareness about the effects of climate change. He highlighted the impact of insufficient infrastructure maintenance on the water crisis.
IFP MP Ms. Sbuyiselwe Buthelezi criticized the cuts to municipal conditional grants and the lack of effective planning in addressing the crisis. She noted that climate change exacerbates the issue, but poor planning and underfunding are the primary concerns.
Freedom Front Plus member Mr. Pieter Mey warned of worsening droughts and the increasing pressure on water resources and infrastructure due to ageing infrastructure, urbanization, and inadequate water storage facilities. He advocated for better planning and management, including desalination and recycling wastewater.