The department of water and sanitation (DWS) has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that all South Africans have access to sustainable water and sanitation services. This comes as national leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders convene at the Local Government Indaba at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand to reflect on 25 years of democratic local governance.
Speaking on behalf of deputy minister David Mahlobo, deputy director-general Dr Risimati Mathye emphasised that water remains central to the nation’s development.
“Water is not only a basic human right but also the cornerstone of health, dignity and economic growth, and must therefore be managed and delivered with long-term sustainability in mind,” Mathye said.
Improving water and sanitation in SA
Mathye outlined the department’s strategic vision for the next 25 years, which includes the professionalisation of local government, legislative reforms to strengthen oversight, and the establishment of an independent water sector regulator.
Key initiatives such as the development of a national water action plan and phase 2 of Operation Vulindlela will focus on accelerating structural reforms to drive sustainable and inclusive growth.
Within the water and sanitation sector, these reforms aim to streamline regulatory processes, enhance infrastructure investment through public-private partnerships, and improve institutional efficiency through bodies such as the National Water Resources Infrastructure Agency (NWRIA) and Catchment Management Agencies (CMAs).
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“The department remains steadfast in its mission to close existing service gaps while preparing for the future. By working together with municipalities, businesses and communities, we can achieve sustainable water and sanitation security for all,” Mathye said.
Symposium for collaboration and innovation
Further strengthening the national dialogue on water management, the Association of Water and Sanitation Institutions of South Africa (Awsisa) will host its first annual symposium from 9 to 12 November 2025 at Emperors Palace in Kempton Park.
The three-day event is expected to attract over 1 500 participants from across Africa and the world, bringing together leaders, experts, and innovators to exchange insights and solutions for the continent’s water challenges.
Under the theme “Towards sustainable water and sanitation security in Africa,” the symposium aims to move discussions from policy to practice. Awsisa emphasises, “Water is a basic human right, and we are looking at everything from policy to practice to ensure a real opportunity for tangible change.”
Central to the discussions will be collaboration with municipalities to enhance service delivery and address challenges such as deteriorating infrastructure and underfunded non-sewer sanitation systems, which remain critical in underserved areas.
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