WATER & SANITATION SUMMIT in SA

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for an urgent national plan to improve water security in alignment with the Government of National Unity’s Medium-Term Development Plan 2025 to 2029. He made this request at the Water and Sanitation Indaba in Midrand, Gauteng. The President emphasized the importance of a turnaround plan that supports ongoing reforms in the water sector to enhance water quality, encourage investment in water infrastructure, and strengthen regulations. 

He highlighted that Operation Vulindela has made significant strides in reforming the water sector, which includes reinstating water quality monitoring systems essential for tourism and agriculture. He noted that the government has reduced the turnaround time for processing water use licenses, with 75% of applications handled within 90 days. Additionally, hiring more technical staff and implementing the Raw Water Pricing Strategy are part of the efforts to improve water management and build investor confidence. 

President Ramaphosa announced plans to introduce a licensing system for water service providers through the Water Services Amendment Bill. The government aims to create the National Water Resource Infrastructure Agency to improve coordination and accountability in water stewardship. He also mentioned strategic interventions to enhance water service delivery in municipalities and the work of the Presidential Water Task Team. 

Collaboration among all stakeholders in water management is crucial for addressing water and sanitation issues, according to the President. He stressed the need for cooperation between national and provincial governments, water management entities, and the private sector. Local governments must use available financial resources effectively to improve water services. 

President Ramaphosa urged that the focus of the Indaba should be on creating actionable plans rather than just identifying problems. He called for strategies that will expand access to water and sanitation, improve infrastructure quality, and promote stability and good governance in South Africa's water management system.

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The Water & Sanitation Department in a note announcing the Summit said: 

“This strategy will align with the objectives of the 7th administration’s Medium-Term Development Plan (2025-2029) and Operation Vulindlela 2.0 (second round of economic reforms under Operation Vulindlela) to ensure a water-secure and resilient future. The Water and Sanitation Indaba seeks to devise immediate solutions that will ensure reliable and sustainable water supply to communities,” the department said in a statement.

The event will also assess progress made on implementing the 2024 Water Summit’s resolutions and mobilise various sectors and expertise to agree on a comprehensive national water and sanitation plan.

The department said this plan will focus on expanding access to water and sanitation services, enhancing water infrastructure, and implementing effective measures to improve water security and service reliability.

According to the department, the indaba represents a pivotal moment in government’s efforts to secure South Africa’s long-term water future.

“Following President Cyril Ramaphosa’s announcement during his State of the Nation Address that water has been elevated as a top priority of government, the outcomes of the indaba will reaffirm government’s unwavering commitment to overcoming sectoral challenges and fostering collaboration across all levels of society. 

“[This is] to build a sustainable water and sanitation sector, and further reinforce government’s dedication to ensuring that every South Africa has access to safe and reliable water and sanitation services,” it said.https://www.sanews.gov.za/south-africa/water-and-sanitation-indaba-tackle-sas-water-security-challenges

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