President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed into law a significant piece of legislation aimed at transforming South Africa's water infrastructure and ensuring long-term water security. The newly enacted South African National Water Resources Infrastructure Agency SOC Ltd Bill establishes a dedicated agency responsible for developing, managing, and expanding the nation's bulk water infrastructure.
The new agency will be empowered to mobilize financing for water projects through innovative models that attract private investment to complement public funding. This move is part of broader water sector reforms designed to increase investment in both the maintenance and construction of water infrastructure, as well as to enhance water quality across the country.
These reforms are spearheaded by Operation Vulindlela, a joint initiative of the Presidency and National Treasury aimed at accelerating structural reforms to support South Africa's economic recovery.
"The initiative aims to modernize and transform network industries, including electricity, water, transport, and digital communications," the presidency said in a statement.
The South African government has recognized the need for a more robust public sector role in infrastructure development, particularly in maintaining and managing existing assets.
The creation of the National Water Resources Infrastructure Agency is seen as a crucial step toward achieving the government's strategic objectives, including poverty eradication and sustainable, equitable development. The agency will also play a key role in advancing the state’s socio-economic and transformation goals.
A significant aspect of the new law is its focus on addressing the fragmentation that currently exists in water resource management.
Moreover, with the ability to raise funds independently, the agency is expected to significantly boost investment in water infrastructure, ensuring that South Africa's water needs are met for decades to come.
Kenya has also recently made a significant step in ensuring its water security. Nairobi residents can expect a significant boost in their water supply thanks to the completion of the Northern Water Collector Tunnel, according to local media.
The project is set to provide an additional 140 million liters of water daily to the city's distribution network. During a visit to the Gigiri reservoir and pumping station, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja reassured the public that this increased supply will help ease persistent water shortages in neighborhoods such as Eastlands, Kabete, and Lang'ata.