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Today, I led a Democratic Alliance (DA) delegation of public representatives from municipalities across the Rand Water supply network, as well as the Gauteng Provincial Legislature on key matters affecting water supply.

Amid serious water supply constraints, the meeting provided an important opportunity for the DA to engage directly with Rand Water’s leadership on the functioning of its systems, its treatment and pumping infrastructure, the role of the Zuikerbosch and Vereeniging Water Treatment Plants, operational constraints across the network, and the broader responsibilities of stakeholders across the water value chain.

At a time when millions of South Africans are experiencing deep frustration, uncertainty and hardship because of water shortages and interruptions, engagements of this nature matter.

South Africa’s water crisis is serious, and the impact on households, businesses, schools, hospitals and local economies is severe. It demands urgency, honesty, cooperation and practical action from every institution involved in the water supply chain.

The DA remains gravely concerned about the scale of the water challenges facing municipalities across the Rand Water network.

However, today’s engagement with Rand Water was productive and worthwhile. The DA will continue to undertake any and all steps we can to seek answers, build relationships and represent the cause of people who are suffering without reliable water supply.

Today’s meeting between the DA and Rand Water was constructive and made clear that we must move from crisis management to long-term water security.

We welcome the openness of Rand Water in engaging with our delegation and in discussing the complexities of the bulk water system.

The DA believes that South Africans deserve a water sector that works, one built on functioning infrastructure, capable institutions, financial discipline, proper maintenance, and accountability at every level of government and the water value chain.

The DA looks forward to further engagements with Rand Water and other stakeholders, as we continue working to help end South Africa’s water crisis and restore water security to millions of South Africans.

Issued by Stephen Moore MP - DA Spokesperson on Water and Sanitation