Since the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) restructured to incorporate sanitation, under the watch of minister Nomvula Mokonyane, a significant increase in the pace of delivery and planning capacity has been apparent, with some serious short-term interventions and some structural changes that should be bear fruit in the medium term.

South Africa cannot afford another crisis. São Paulo, Brazil, actually faces such a severe water shortage that it is estimated that water will stop flowing from the taps for up to five days a week.

South Africa’s urban water resources are under threat, and our delivery to the forgotten provinces has to be prioritised if we want to avoid major civil unrest.

Much work is being undertaken by water utilities to shore up their assets and strengthen their capacity to deliver services to struggling municipalities.

How we manage our water resources is the most critical issue we face this National Water Week. South Africa is a country that still uses potable water to wash its cars and water its gardens.

This truly indicates an under-appreciation for not only the national limit on this resource, but the rather frightening global limit as well.

This edition’s Panel Discussion participants are true heroes and include Amanzi Meters, Aveng Manufacturing DFC, Bigen Africa, Bosch Stemele/Munitech, Elster Kent Metering, GLS Consulting, Lesira-Teq, L&G Pipes, KSB Pumps, Vovani Water Products and WEC Projects.

These panelists collectively speak to the institutional, technical, infrastructure and metering solutions that represent the best of best for South Africa’s water future and IMIESA is proud to host them all.

Read more here.