Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu has intensified efforts to address water supply sustainability in Johannesburg, South Africa. In a recent meeting with key stakeholders from the City of Johannesburg, the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) highlighted crucial challenges and proposed solutions to ensure efficient water management.
The gathering, which included Acting Executive Mayor Loyiso Masuku, representatives from Joburg Water, and the Rand Water Board, among others, focused on strategies to tackle the pressing issues affecting water supply in the city. Dr. Risimati Mathye, Deputy Director-General for Water and Sanitation Services Management, presented a comprehensive overview of the current situation.
Mathye underscored that despite Johannesburg’s commendable Blue Drop score of 98.1% in 2023, the city still loses a significant portion of its water supply, amounting to 46.1%, primarily due to various factors such as water main bursts, decreased storage capacity, and illegal water connections in informal settlements.
Minister Mchunu expressed deep concern over the persistent challenges in ensuring reliable water supply in Johannesburg, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to address the issues effectively. He acknowledged the identification of potential projects but highlighted the critical need to overcome funding constraints hindering their implementation.
To facilitate ongoing discussions and action plans, a follow-up meeting has been scheduled for March 18, 2024, signaling the government’s commitment to resolving the water supply challenges in the city.
Empowering Communities: Minister Mchunu’s Visit to Greater Kokstad
In a proactive move to assess and address water and sanitation issues beyond Johannesburg, Minister Mchunu will embark on a working visit to Greater Kokstad in the Harry Gwala District Municipality, situated in KwaZulu-Natal.
During this visit, scheduled for Friday, Minister Mchunu will oversee the handover of the contractor responsible for the elevation of the Kempsdale Dam Wall and the construction of a pump station. These critical infrastructural developments aim to enhance water supply capacity in key areas including Kokstad Town, Kokstad C-Max Prison, Shayamoya, and Bhongweni.
The significance of these projects extends beyond infrastructure, as approximately 69,146 residents are poised to benefit from improved access to clean water upon completion.
Furthermore, Minister Mchunu will engage in dialogue with various stakeholders and the local community to gain insights into their concerns and perspectives regarding water and sanitation services in the area. This community engagement session, scheduled to take place at the Bhongweni Youth Centre in Kokstad, underscores the government’s commitment to inclusive decision-making and participatory governance.
Accompanying Minister Mchunu on this visit will be Harry Gwala District Municipality Mayor Zamo Nxumalo, along with other local municipality representatives and traditional leaders, reaffirming the collaborative approach to addressing water challenges at both local and regional levels.
As South Africa strives towards sustainable water management, these proactive engagements and initiatives led by Minister Mchunu underscore the government’s commitment to ensuring equitable access to clean water and sanitation services for all its citizens.
This website uses cookies.
