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AfriForum welcomes Deputy President Paul Mashatile and Minister of Water and Sanitation, Senzo Mchunu’s, announcement that the national government is willing to involve AfriForum and other roleplayers in civil society in the government’s Water Task Team. Meanwhile, AfriForum today requested that an urgent meeting be called between the respective parties to discuss the matter further. The meeting is sought to address pressing issues regarding water management and the sustainability of this scarce resource in South Africa.

AfriForum is deeply concerned about the state of water resources in South Africa and is committed to finding solutions to the challenges faced by communities across the country. Strategies and initiatives aimed at improving water infrastructure and services therefore urgently need to be discussed with Mashatile and Mchunu.

In addition to the request for a meeting, AfriForum also announces its upcoming Water Conference set to take place in June 2024. The conference will serve as a platform for stakeholders to engage in discussions regarding water management issues and explore sustainable solutions. Following the conference, AfriForum intends to initiate discussions with various relevant government departments to further develop plans for addressing the water crisis.

“As part of our commitment to finding innovative solutions, AfriForum also advocates for the utilisation of joint ventures and similar mechanisms to enhance cooperation between the government and local communities. We believe that empowering competent local community members to assist in water services delivery can significantly improve the effectiveness of water services delivery,” says Lambert de Klerk, AfriForum’s Manager for Environmental Affairs.

AfriForum looks forward to collaborating with government officials, water experts and community representatives at the Water Conference to chart a course towards a sustainable water future for South Africa. We anticipate productive discussions and workable outcomes that will benefit all South Africans.

Additionally, AfriForum has partnered with Pionier Services Company, WaterGroup and the Water Institute of Southern Africa (WISA) to offer an accredited Continuing Professional Development (CPD) course on water and wastewater treatment. We extend an invitation to municipalities to apply to take this course which aims to equip them with the necessary skills to address water challenges effectively.

The civil rights organisation also urges Mashatile and Mchunu to prioritise the meeting with AfriForum and work with stakeholders to address the pressing water challenges facing the nation.

Issued by AfriForum