South Africa will not run out of water despite localised shortages, Mahlobo says

Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation David Mahlobo has assured South Africans that the country will not run out of water, despite facing localised water shortages and ageing infrastructure. Speaking at a briefing, Mahlobo highlighted the government's priority on water security, outlining interventions aimed at expanding access, improving infrastructure, and ensuring a reliable supply for the growing population and economy.

He noted that while access to water has increased to 91.3% and to sanitation at 85.6% in 2026, these figures must be considered alongside supply reliability, as intermittent water remains an issue for some communities. Mahlobo stressed that ageing infrastructure and water quality deterioration are concerns, urging government to ensure reliable, sustainable, and demand-fulfilling water and sanitation services.

The ANC government has provided strong leadership on water security, with President Cyril Ramaphosa elevating the issue similarly to energy security. Mahlobo emphasized that expanding access is only part of the solution, and now the focus must be on implementing a national water action plan with discipline and decisive intervention where municipalities are unable to fulfil their responsibilities.

The government has allocated over R156 billion in grants and subsidies over three years to support water and sanitation access, including projects targeting unserved communities and infrastructure upgrades. However, Mahlobo warned that water quality deterioration due to pollution remains a concern, and government is addressing municipalities failing to manage wastewater systems.