Water Reports
All of these reports have been submitted by users or from News articles published on other websites.
Even though we do take every precaution to verify the validity of information provided we cannot accept responsibility for any of the information.
If you come across anything that you believe is irrelevant or incorrect, please contact us on info@waternews.co.za
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Leaking Water Pipe
On 26 July 2017, I reported a water leakage in our street to the Officer responsible for services at the Metsimaholo Municipality. He came to have a look and left the scene without doing anything! On 01 August 2017, I followed upon the matter and he said they are waiting
Dirty Water
Since January 2017, I have been complaining about the dirty water we get, to bath in, to drink, to cook with, to do washing in (I have photo's and a video as proof). I complained to the DA Councillor who was responsible at the time who came and took a
Western Cape declared disaster zone over drought | News24
Cape Town – The Western Cape government has declared the entire province a disaster zone in order to deal with the ongoing drought, MEC Alan Winde said on Monday. The declaration was made to quicken the reaction time for the deployment of resources to tackle water scarcity, Winde told News24.
Shelf Life: Water for Africa with new Chivas venture | Marklives.com
Water from whisky South Africa has experienced severe water shortages, with almost 2m people having no access to a reliable water supply between 2011 and 2015. This crisis has partly inspired the launch of I-Drop Water, which is already transforming the way safe drinking water is bought
Municipality urges you to keep saving water | Review
POLOKWANE – During the recent Integrated Development Plan (IDP) Budget meeting the Polokwane Muncipality has again called on residents to save water.The IDP and Budget for the new financial year highlighted that as much as 30 to 100 litres of water per minute could be used to water gardens
BUH-REIN ESTATE
Buh-Rein Estate still water the gardens every day despite the heavy restrictions. We saw it on Tuesday evening at 20h23 and this afternoon again at 14h16.
Water Wastage in Wellington – Some People Don’t Care
This person thinks that they're above the law and have a right to water during water restrictions.The person who reported this incident wishes to remain anonymous in the interest of the safety of their family.The person believes that that water is a valuable resource and should be used responsibly by
GCX Water partners with Gurumanzi and Dr Anthony Turton – GCX
We’ve always enjoyed putting the concept of the collaborative economy to work. Collaboration works when 1+1 = 3, or the combination of both parties creates something bigger than just the some of their parts. It works because it allows us to solve old problems with new ways of thinking
WATCH: ‘Water restrictions could be with us for 9 years’ – MMC | Bedfordview Edenvale News
The current water crisis in South Africa could have detrimental consequences for South Africa and its citizens if nothing is done to secure our current water reserves. At a meeting with the media on September 30, the Ekurhuleni MMC of water, sanitation and energy, Clr Tiisetso Nketle, spoke about the
SA dams at their ‘lowest levels in years’
Cape Town - Dams across the country are at their lowest levels in years, the inter-ministerial task team on drought said on Thursday. While reiterating that there was not yet a need to declare the ongoing drought a disaster, ministers Des van Rooyen, Nomvula Mokonyane and Senzeni Zokwana highlighted the need
Hefty fines in JHB as water restrictions upped
Johannesburg - Hefty fines may await Johannesburg residents as water restrictions are increased. Member of the Mayoral Committee responsible for Environment, Infrastructure Services Department Anthony Still told journalists that water consumption in Johannesburg needed to be reduced by 15% to ensure the reservoirs do not run dry. Rand Water will
Why Cape Town’s Forgotten Tunnels Could Provide the Answer to the City’s Current Drought
CAPE TOWN, South Africa — As I sit in traffic during Cape Town’s busy rush hour, it’s difficult to imagine that running beneath this city of approximately 3.75 million are hundreds of kilometers of underground brick tunnels, tunnels that transport millions of liters of fresh spring water from Table Mountain
Western Cape government recommends water restrictions | National | BDlive
DAM levels across the Western Cape remain low despite recent rains, leading to recommendations of restricting water usage. This comes amid concern about less-than-normal rainfall predicted for the coming winter season, which runs from the end of May to August. ADVERTISING inRead invented by Teads The provincial government said on
City and The Nature Conservancy to establish SA’s first water fund – Cape Business News
The City of Cape Town and the international conservation organisation The Nature Conservancy (TNC) have formally agreed to a water fund for Cape Town which aims to safeguard water supplies and biodiversity while supporting local livelihoods. It will be a first for South Africa. The Cape Town Water Fund will
Vaal dam runs dry
DENEYSVILLE, Free State - The Water and Sanitation Department has warned South Africans to use water sparingly. READ: South Africans using too much water: experts The department says one of the country's main water supplies, the Vaal Dam, is about 34-percent full. That's the lowest it’s been in years. READ: You could
Pretoria to face 2 days without water | IOL
12 August 2016 Pretoria - Pretoria residents should brace themselves for a two-day drought starting on Tuesday. Parts of the capital will be without water for two days as maintenance is done on pipelines. According to the city, the interruption is unavoidable as the upgrading
Nomvula Mokonyane’s Watergate | City Press
Allegations of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project being ‘captured’ by politically connected businesses are gaining ground with a year-long delay in construction – and South Africans will be paying for rising costs Water Affairs and Sanitation Minister Nomvula Mokonyane is set to be grilled by the Public Protector’s office this
Award winning water project comes under fire | IOL
Durban - One of South Africa’s most ambitious water and environment conservation projects has come under fire, with concerns that political interference, bureaucracy and heavy emphasis on job creation are undermining its main purpose. The Working for Water project, which has won more than 100 national and international awards, was
Our most precious resource under threat | IOL
Although South Africa’s water supply is almost fully allocated, the clean water we have is under threat from a number of pollutants, according to researcher David Hemson. Only a quarter of the sewage released by municipal treatment plants into our rivers has been treated properly, and we have 986 municipal
Water tariff increase proposal released | Roodepoort Record
The proposed water tariff increases for 2016/17 is the least infuriating of the lot in tariff increase proposals the City of Johannesburg published in April. The proposed prices for domestic users per kilolitre will increase with between 6 anbd 14.9 per cent depending on average usage. Things that factored into
Working for water | News24
INTERNATIONAL Water Week is marked around the world every year from 15 to 23 March and the Keep Tongaat Beautiful Association (KTBA) held a water awareness programme of its own at the V Moonsamy Hall on 15 March to celebrate the event. Chairman of the association Soobrie Govendsamy, who has
How R502m grew to R2.7bn in a year
President Jacob Zuma has ordered the Special Investigating Unit to probe how a little-known firm of consulting engineers received water and sanitation contracts worth hundreds of millions of rands without tendering for the jobs. In terms of the proclamation gazetted last week, the unit will investigate the appointment of LTE
Night-time water cuts hit Durban
Durban – The eThekwini municipality has instituted night time water cuts in large parts of Durban to ease pressure on KwaZulu-Natal’s dams during the drought. Residents and businesses in areas supplied by the Midmar and Albert Falls dams were warned of “on-going interrupted water supply” until there was sufficient rainfall,
Water woes cost East London firms | IOL
Port Elizabeth - Businesses in East London estimate they have lost at least R460 million due to the city's waters woes. The water issues have left large areas with little to no water for most of this week. Parts of the metro have been without water since Monday and by
Tap water in major SA metro fails drinking test – Times LIVE
The good news for residents is that five of the seven offending municipalities acted quickly to clean up their drinking water‚ once alerted to the problem. The Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality was a prime culprit‚ serving up poor quality H2O to residents in Pretoria West – a residential area close to
Conservation an effective way to save water | News24
ACCORDING to the Water Research Commission (WRC), a dripping tap wastes up to 60 litres per day. This adds up to 1 800 liters per month. A leaking cistern can fill up three full baths everyday and this could waste up to 100 000 liter per year. Leaking taps and
Crystal Lagoons Develops Disruptive Water Desalination Technology that doesn’t use Energy
***The technological innovation aims to solve water shortage - humanity's biggest problem that affects a billion people worldwide - using energy that is wasted by thermoelectric power plants and is equivalent to 8 times the world's renewable energy. Crystal Lagoons has developed a new water desalination technology to deal with
Cape water crisis
Cape Town's water supply is in a crisis, with the level of its three biggest dams at an unprecedented low. This is in the context of an already-stretched water supply that struggles to meet demand as the population grows, says climate change expert Bob Scholes. Theewaterskloof Dam, the biggest, is
Risk of making the poor poorer | IOL
Mike Muller explains why water footprinting should be used with caution as a regulation tool It seems logical that crops and goods that need lots of water should not be produced in water-scarce countries. If consumers, companies and governments knew how much water was used, they could make the right
Coal of Africa’s Makhado Water Use Licence suspended
Coal of Africa, the South African coal company, on Friday noted its Integrated Water Use Licence (IWUL) for its Makhado project has been suspended. This is following an appeal to the Department of Water and Sanitation submitted by the Vhembe Mineral Resources Forum – an organisation established to protect environmental
SA Engineers Survey – minimum funds allocated towards infrastructure projects | BizNis Africa
According to the latest PPS survey conducted among almost 600 engineering professionals, 80% of the respondents indicated that they do not think that the Government will allocate sufficient funds towards projects aimed at addressing the country’s electricity and water crises. Manglin Pillay, South African Institution of Civil Engineering (SAICE) Chief Executive
Water withdrawal to exceed supply for next 20 years – Times LIVE
That’s according to research done by the Water Research Commission (WRC) and Institute for Security Studies Africa (ISS). A statement following the release of “Parched prospect II: A revised long-term water supply and demand forecasts for South Africa” by ISS researcher Zachary Donnenfeld said: “More must be done to bring
Kusile, Medupi conceived in 20th century, struggling in water-scarce 21st
NOT far from Johannesburg, set amid the corn and sunflower fields of the Highveld in Mpumalanga province, stand two unusually thick and tall candy-striped smokestacks, dozens of stout concrete support columns, and the tangled steel superstructure of the unfinished 4 800 MW Kusile coal-fired power station. About 370km northwest, spread
Joburg suburbs warned of water cuts | eNCA
JOHANNESBURG - The City of Johannesburg has warned of possible water interruptions in several areas. Officials say the Eikenhoff pump station has failed, and it will take about a week to repair. The City is, meanwhile, using a second pump to supply water. If that pump fails, certain areas around
SuzelleDIY: How to be Water Wise, Guys (featuring Helen Zille) | eNCA
In light of the national water crisis in South Africa, Suzelle has pulled together a most informative DIY video on how to save water. CREDIT: YouTube.com/SuzelleDIY Before getting to the crux of the matter, Suzelle compares her popularity with Helen Zille - a very important issue since if one is
SA water resources ‘overexploited’ – Sowetan LIVE
South Africa is overexploiting its water resources‚ and runs the risk of continued water shortages unless more is done to close the gap between how much water is utilised and how much is available. This is according to University of Denver researcher Steve Hedden‚ who worked at the Institute for
All citizens should strive to save more water | Mpumalanga News
MBOMBELA- Water is life, hence the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has declared March as the month to highlight the importance of water in all aspects of life. This declaration is to go hand in hand with the ongoing celebrations of Human Right Day, as access to water is
National Water Week and World Water Day
"The next big conflicts in Africa will be on water usage" was the chilling prediction made earlier this year by the recently departed Dr Lawrence Musaba of the Southern African Power Pool and last year’s recipient of the African Utility Week Lifetime Achievement Award. "The food-energy-water nexus is becoming a
The biggest drought post 1994 | Vryheid Herald
There can be few South Africans who are unaware that the country is currently in the grip of the worst drought in decades Source: The biggest drought post 1994 | Vryheid Herald
It’s essential to manage water | IOL
Jo Barnes A lack of water impacts on every sphere of life. It affects health, economic production, jobs, safety and social stability, to name only a few. The present drought in South Africa made the slogan of a better life for all impossible to attain in the foreseeable future.
Official warns of fracking pollution | IOL
A senior government official has spoken out strongly about the high risks of water pollution from gas fracking in one of the driest countries in the world. Namisha Muthraparsad, acting deputy director for water use in the national Department of Water and Sanitation, warned yesterday that South Africa, as the
Knysna only has water for 23 days | Knysna-Plett Herald | Plettenberg Baya
KNYSNA NEWS FLASH - The situation in the Knysna Municipality has reached critical levels with reserves of this precious resource down to 23 days at the current rate of consumption. Knysna executive mayor, Georlene Wolmarans, urges: "Knysna is on high alert. We appeal to all residents of Knysna to make
Water-shedding on tap | IOL
Durban - The eThekwini Municipality on Tuesday poured cold water on claims it would be introducing stringent “water load-shedding”. It said an investigation had been launched into a leaked report that included a weekly schedule of shutdowns for areas across the municipality. The council’s executive committee heard on Tuesday morning
Brace for water shedding, warns councillor | Northglen News
THE eThekwini Municipality plans on implementing water-shedding as its way forward to addressing the current water crisis gripping South Africa. It is understood the municipality’s water department will tomorrow host a press briefing which will include a schedule, akin to the load-shedding schedule. The move will see the water being
Govt owes municipalities R5.4bn for water | IOL
The government owes municipalities a phenomenal R5.4 billion for unpaid water services, while ordinary South Africans and the private sector owe nearly R110bn. This was revealed by Thabo Manyoni, the chairman of the SA Local Government Association (Salga), who said the total R115 billion figure included interest. “We have to
Skills evaporate in water sector
The country's "chronic" shortage of engineers in municipalities is having a detrimental effect on the quality of drinking water and the ability of municipalities to prevent crippling water losses. This is according to Manglin Pillay, CEO of the SA Institution of Civil Engineers (Saice), who was speaking after the release
Southern Africa Droughts Jeopardize Food for Millions
Millions of people are at risk of food shortages and need emergency assistance in southern Africa, while 1 million children in southern and eastern Africa are suffering severe malnutrition, according to the United Nations and international aid agencies. El Nino, the global weather pattern that disrupts rainfall around the world,
Mandatory 15% water restrictions for all KZN municiplities | News24
Durban – KwaZulu-Natal municipalities have to cut water usage by 15% or there will be no water in the province by the end of 2016, KwaZulu-Natal Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC Nomusa Dube-Ncube said on Tuesday. In addition, the agricultural sector would have to reduce water use by 50%,
African drought tames Victoria Falls’ thunderous roar
VICTORIA FALLS, ZAMBIA - Tourists staring in wonder at the full force of the Zambezi River cascading over Victoria Falls struggle to believe the region is suffering one of its worst ever droughts, but local guide Patrick Sakala knows all is not well. Flows have dropped to 30-year lows at
‘South Africa’s biggest water pollution culprit is Government’ – Times LIVE
The South African water sector is entering the early phase of a “perfect storm” driven by the convergence of significant drivers over which no individual has any direct control‚ says water expert Professor Anthony Turton. He says that South Africa is in the middle of an El Nino drought event‚
‘Demand for water is not slowing down’ | IOL
Durban - If South Africa doesn’t address the gap between water supply and demand now, the problem could worsen by 2035. This was the warning by Dr Jakkie Cilliers, head of African Futures and Innovation at the Institute for Security Studies. “South Africa is also experiencing the worst drought in
S. Africa water confab nixed over Israel envoy’s participation | The Times of Israel
The envoy, Arthur Lenk, was to be part of a panel at the conference scheduled for the end of February on “equitable and sustainable water management for poverty alleviation,” the Cape Times reported Tuesday. The conference was organized by the Mail and Guardian newspaper “We are willing to share expertise
Joemat-Pettersson says nuclear is nonnegotiable due to water shortages
ENERGY Minister Tina Joemat-Pettersson said on Wednesday SA had to go “nuclear” because renewable energy could not supply the base load the country would need in the future. Speaking on the second day of the state of the nation (Sona) debate, Ms Joemat-Pettersson said the country lacked adequate water to
Dept of Water Affairs springs a leak as Anonymous open taps – htxt.africa
Last week hacking collective Anonymous making good on its promise and went after African government websites, busting open a rather large number of private and government-owned domains. It seems as though the group isn’t done with South Africa just yet, as it has continued its Operation Africa (#OpAfrica) campaign against the Department of Water
Heart warming smiles for water delivery | IOL
Durban - The drought may be having a devastating impact on land, livestock and people, but it has brought out the humanity in South Africans. Not only has the public come forward, donating bottles of water to the Our Water/Project Thirst initiative, but the private sector, such as Independent Media,
LISTEN: ‘Water shortage among SA’s biggest problems’
Cape Talk | A special envoy of natural resources of the Netherlands, Dirk-Jan Koch, says water shortage is one of the biggest problems facing the country today. JOHANNESBURG - As South Africa battles the worst drought in over in 23 years, a special envoy of natural resources of the Netherlands
WATCH: Danish government to help SA tackle water problems | eNCA
PRETORIA - The Danish government is to help South Africa tackle its water problems. The two governments have signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at increasing knowledge sharing, exchanging ideas and capacity building. It is likely to pave the way for a long-term partnership. Source: Danish government to help SA
Project Thirst | News24
THIS is a familiar scene throughout the drought-stricken areas of South Africa, but donations of water are being organised to help the many communities who are without water. Shoprite Group’s KwaZulu-Natal division is ramping up its drought-relief efforts through Project Thirst, an initiative launched to assist affected communities. Project Thirst
Reusing effluent saves water | News24
LATE last year, there was a parliamentary question (4252) in the National Assembly directed to the minister of Water and Sanitation (DWS), Nomvula Mokonyane, for a written reply on whether any of the metropolitan municipalities were currently treating effluent for reuse. There are six waste water treatment works under metropolitan
Drought adds pressure to S African mines and host communities
JOHANNESBURG (miningweekly.com) - While the current drought plaguing many parts of Southern Africa is taking its toll on mining operations, it will also start to impact on host communities requiring a steady supply of potable water. Project management and engineering consultancy Royal HaskoningDHV mining director Berte Simons told Mining Weekly
The Western Cape Premier and Mayor of Cape Town: We demand the long term protection of the Philippi Horticulture Area
Why this is important The Philippi Horticulture Area (PHA), the unique 3,000ha farmlands located within the city of Cape Town and in the heart of the Cape Flats has been the city’s breadbasket since 1885. CapeTown’s food security, water security and climate security depends on it! Where will our food
Free State is worst performing province – DA | News24
Bloemfontein – The Free State province is one of the worst performing provinces, along with North West and the Northern Cape, the DA said on Monday. This comes after the national department of water affairs released the 2014 Blue Drop report on Sunday. "Only two municipalities in the province, the
Community furious over water cut-offs | IOL
Johannesburg - Communities in various areas South of Durban are up in arms following a prolonged interruption of basic service delivery like water and electricity which were cut off by the eThekwini Municipality over the weekend. Townships including Adams Mission, KwaMakhutha, Ilovu and others south of Durban were on Monday
Operation Hydrate smashes charity record | IOL
Johannesburg - The worst drought in 23 years has ravaged farms and livestock and left rural communities gasping with thirst. Although this is going to send food prices rocketing, it has also brought South Africans together. Operation Hydrate has managed to raise R60 million, outstripping its original target six-fold. And
Companies, shops urged to sell water in drought-stricken areas at cost
JOHANNESBURG – Operation Hydrate has urged water companies and chain stores to sell water at cost price, particularly in areas that are hardest hit by the drought. The campaign started in the first week of last month and aims to distribute water across the country to areas worst affected by
Farmers drill deep for water
Devastating drought, dwindling water resources and government mismanagement of boreholes threaten South Africa's supplies of underground water. Farmers in many regions, struggling to make ends meet, are drilling boreholes to extreme depths, some beyond 500m. "We have farmers who are drilling beyond 500m on Gauteng's East Rand and West Rand.
‘We’re not taking our water situation seriously enough’
CAPE TOWN - Clem Sunter, a scenario planner at Mind of a Fox, says we are having one of the worst droughts at the moment, and it goes beyond being able to water our gardens or wash our cars. Sunter says South Africans should be reminded more about the
Residents turn to dirty streams for water as drought rages on – Sowetan LIVE
Parts of Nelspruit's townships have been without as South Africa continues to weather a drought. Areas of Nelspruit's KaBokweni township have been without water for three weeks forcing some residents to spend about R1 per litre for water or drink from dirty streams. Illegal water connections, leaks and even theft
3 cases of typhoid fever hit Cape | IOL
Cape Town - Cape Town residents who live in areas with poor sanitation could be at risk of contracting the highly contagious typhoid fever as the first cases in the Western Cape have been confirmed. Mark van der Heever, the spokesman for the provincial Department of Health, has said three
SUNDAY TIMES – Durban starts emergency water delivery amid drought
Authorities in Durban have started emergency steps to deliver water to the city's three million people as a record drought grips the country. The city is setting up machines that will prepare four- liter (one gallon) bags of water for distribution among the neediest residents, its executive committee said Tuesday.
Wise up on saving water
With summer in full swing, these persistent hot days are a constant reminder of the concerning water levels throughout the country. Water shortages have become a burning issue with many regions throughout South Africa currently experiencing water restrictions, to ensure that the precious resource is sustained. "Water is a vital
KZN dam level ‘steadily decreasing’
National government says this is despite widespread rain and thundershowers in some drought-hit areas this month. Officials are urging communities across the country to continue to use water sparingly. Northern KZN is one of the worst affected areas in South Africa. Water and Sanitation's Mlimandlela Ndamase says the recent rainfall
Water restrictions: Capetonians could face hefty fines
CAPE TOWN - Capetonians not adhering to water restrictions could face fines of over R1,000. Level two restrictions have been in place since the beginning of the year. The City Of Cape Town’s Ernest Sonnenberg says they’re aimed at forcing residents to save at least 20 percent of their water usage. “A
World Economic Forum Ranks Water Crises as Top Long-term Risk – Circle of Blue WaterNews
An annual survey of the world’s business, political, and scholarly elite reinforces a message that leaders are beginning to understand with greater depth and clarity: pay attention to water. The World Economic Forum, whose membership includes heads of state, CEOs, and civic leaders, ranked water crises as the top global
Water the new gold – Times LIVE
Our biggest water resource, the Lesotho Highlands Water Project, is struggling to keep up with the demand from South Africa. Reports coming out of Lesotho suggest that more and more people are moving out of the countryside and into the towns, with the result that that country's government is having
‘Thank God for the rain’ – Northern Cape farmer | News24
Kimberley – Northern Cape residents are cautiously celebrating after a week of rain that saw rivers swell, fields turn a tinge of green and a park close due to the water levels. The province is caught in one of the worst droughts – and several heatwaves – in decades. The heavens opened
DA lambastes government ‘lack of understanding’ on drought crisis | News24
Durban – A DA MP has called Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Minister Senzeni Zokwana’s recent press briefing on the drought crisis, evidence of his “lack of understanding of the impact the drought has South Africans”. DA shadow minister of the same portfolio, Annette Steyn, said Zokwana displayed a “lack of
Demand for water rising as towns run dry | eNCA
JOHANNESBURG - As the devastating drought continues, more taps around the country are running dry. But help is at hand. Efforts to deliver water to parched communities are gaining momentum. The rains have come, but it’s too little, too late. More and more towns are running dry. And while government
‘We never imagined a life without running water’
SWARTRUGGENS - Residents in Swartruggens say they've never imagined a life without proper running water after nearly six months of dry taps. The North West community is one of many in the country that have been affected by the worst drought to hit South Africa in decades. Yesterday, hundreds of
Is this Legal? – OPINION & HELP NEEDED
A family friend who works in Cape Town has recently returned from her home village, Mbekeni location situated in Encobo (Ngcobo) in the Eastern Cape and has shared her experience with me. At first, it didn't really register how severe the situation is and what the people, who live in
No drop to waste: Tackling South Africa’s water crisis | Daily Maverick
Having long since fled KwaZulu Natal and the Free State, fat, passing clouds scatter a handful of raindrops over Gauteng like rich men throwing coins at the poor. As the reality of full-blown drought settles in across much of the country, attention has turned to what we can do to
Drought in KZN: “The rain will come soon enough, it has to” | The Daily Vox
Kwazulu Natal is one of five provinces that were declared water disaster areas late last year due to the worst drought to have hit South Africa in decades. The effects of the drought have not been felt equally across the province, but water restrictions have been put in place in
Low water levels force Eskom to turn off a hydro station
JOHANNESBURG - Eskom says it’s stopped using one of its hydro-electric power stations in the Eastern Cape due to low water levels but, in general, the drought has not had an impact on electricity supply. The country is facing the worst drought in 23 years, with infrastructure and food security already under threat.
Warning: 15% water cuts on their way | IOL
Durban - With dam levels still shrinking across the province, the government has warned residents of Durban, Pietermaritizburg, Howick and the upper South Coast to brace for compulsory 15% domestic and industrial water restrictions unless there is an immediate and noticeable drop in water consumption. Irrigation farmers face a 50%
More Africans have phone service than piped water – CNN.com
(CNN)In Africa, less than one in three people have a proper drainage system, half of the population live in areas without paved roads, and only 63% have access to piped water. Yet, 93% of Africans have cell phone service. These are among the findings in a recently published report by
Water restrictions imminent as drought takes its toll | News24
As Midmar dam sits at 47%, the lowest level recorded in years, uMgungundlovu District Municipality (uMDM) yesterday warned businesses, ratepayers and communities about “the compelling need to introduce water restrictions”. Mayor Yusuf Bhamjee said the details of water restrictions would be made public after technical assessments were conducted. “The aim
‘Everything has dried up completely’ – Senekal residents | News24
Bloemfontein - A toddler dressed in worn-out sandals, a bright red top and blue striped panties desperately pries her fingers into a tap that has run dry in Tambo informal settlement in the Free State town of Senekal. "You see how our children are," comments a mother, cradling a baby
Drought Dries South African Maize Silos
JOHANNESBURG—South Africa is quickly running out of maize as the El Nino drought deepens. Like many other countries in southern Africa, South Africa is experiencing its worst drought in decades. As the current crop withers due to extreme heat and little rainfall, food prices are rising and may be out
Mokonyane withholding Blue and Green Drop Reports – Leon Basson – POLITICS | Politicsweb
DA MP says only logical inference for this is that minister trying to hide poor ANC performance ahead of 2016 elections Mokonyane withholding Blue and Green Drop Reports to hide poor ANC performance 18 January 2016 Minister of Water and Sanitation, Nomvula Mokonyane, is deliberately concealing the ANC’s mismanagement of
Water Shortage SA delivers 2 million litres of water in 20 days | News24
Durban – "Never sold, never bought, never sponsored, only donated by South Africans for South Africans" – this is the motto of Water Shortage South Africa, says spokesperson Ray de Vries. Water Shortage SA, a spontaneous initiative that sprung up on Facebook, has gained more than 20 000 likes and
More water restrictions on cards for KZN | News24
Durban – More water restrictions are on the cards for KwaZulu-Natal, after the uMgungundlovu District Municipality said there was a "compelling need" to have them in place. A committee to evaluate water restrictions has been set up. The uMgungundlovu District Municipality said it was forewarning businesses, ratepayers, and communities about
Mokonyane proud of SA drive to deliver water to areas hit by drought | News24
Cape Town - Water and Sanitation Minister Nomvula Mokonyane was proud of the way South Africans had pulled together to deliver water all over the country during the drought, her spokesperson said on Monday. "It reinforces the fact that we are a caring nation. When confronted by tough times we
SABC News – South Africans urged to assist drought stricken areas
The water shortage crises continues to impact on most parts of the country, non-governmental organisation - Operation Hydrate - has continued to deliver much needed water to drought-stricken areas. The NGO announced that Swartruggens in the North West would be the next beneficiary. Forecasters say while it's anticipated that South
Limpopo villagers forced to dig for water | News24
Mokopane - Villagers in Waterberg, Limpopo’s main livestock-farming zone, knew little about climate change, until recently when the river they depend on for their livelihood ran dry. Residents of Bokwidi village, north-west of Polokwane, have been forced to dig into the Mogalakwena River’s bed to find water for washing and
Late rains bring some hope to South Africa’s parched maize belt – CNBC Africa
Late rains bring some hope to South Africa's parched maize belt. South African farmer Chris Schoonwinkel is taking a gamble: two months late, he is planting maize in a pair of his fields, pinning his hopes on a mid-summer rain. "We had literally no rain in November and nothing in
The deadly effects of water pollution
WATER pollution is a serious global threat to our fresh water supplies and healthy oceans. The planet has become one large dumping ground where our rubbish and pollutants are killing countless animals, marine life and spreading disease. It is estimated that around 5 million people die every year from drinking
Johnny
On Wed Dec the company has been filled
South Africa’s 2015 rainfall lowest in 112 years due to El Nino; no one alive who has seen it so dry | MG Africa
SOUTH Africa’s rainfall last year was the lowest since records began in 1904 as the El Nino global weather pattern caused dry conditions across the region. There is probably no one alive in South Africa today who has seen such low levels of rain. Precipitation was 403 millimeters (15.9 inches) in
Drought impacts SA table grape crop | Fin24
Cape Town - SA's table grape crop is expected to be between 1% and 4% lower than the actual 2014/15 exported crop size, according to The South African Table Grape Industry (Sati). Its updated estimate for all South African table grape growing regions indicates the total crop estimate between 56.8
Coal of Africa secures water use licence for Makhado project in South Africa – Mining Technology
"The granting of the IWUL is a further step towards bringing the Makhado Project into production." Australia-based Coal of Africa has received a 20-year water use licence from the South Africa Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) for Makhado project in Limpopo Province. In 2013, the company completed a
SA farmers owe banks R125bn as drought hits | Fin24
Johannesburg - Farmers have their highest-ever debt with South African banks of more than R125bn at a time when a drought, caused by the lowest rainfall on record, is withering maize fields and discouraging the planting of crops. FirstRand has the largest proportion of total loans extended to agriculture among
Heat continues to rise in the Northern Cape while thunderstorms rock Gauteng | Traveller24
Cape Town - The South African Weather Service has warned of extremely high fire danger conditions in places over the north-western parts of the Northern Cape. South Africans are urged to watch for severe thunderstorms in parts of Gauteng, Mpumalanga Highveld, North West and the extreme northern Free State On
Zokwana to give update on drought relief and grain imports | News24
Johannesburg - Agriculture Minister Senzeni Zokwana is expected to meet with members of Grain SA, the National Agricultural Marketing Council of SA (NAMC), Transnet as well as Maize Trust on Friday to determine the country's level of readiness for importing grains. Zokwana has already met with members of AgriSA, the African
Drought: Time to call it a national disaster, says DA | Daily Maverick
On Thursday, the DA called for the drought to be declared a national disaster, just hours after Finance Minister, Pravin Gordhan, stated that drought was an “absolute priority” for the Government. Dam levels are down in all provinces, at 57% of capacity. Food security, healthcare and employment are increasingly under
Drought-stricken areas runneth over thanks to massive water drive
Cape Town - A water drive that started as a modest plea on Facebook has grown into a nationwide campaign co-ordinated by ordinary people on social media. "It has snowballed into something I never experienced in my life," said Caroline van Saasen who started the Facebook page Water Shortage South
Zimbabwe: The effect of the drought – NEWS & ANALYSIS | Politicsweb
The only real constant in world history is change, in all its different forms. Anyone who thinks otherwise will soon be overwhelmed by the changes taking place around them. I have been watching the dialogue taking place around the globe on the subject of climate change and global warming. I
Five things SA can do to stave off the water crisis for good – Cape Business News
South Africa – facing its most serious water crisis in recent history – must urgently adopt a comprehensive long-term water strategy to ensure that the country has enough clean water for the next 100 years, according to Grant Thornton. Grant Thornton Director focusing on future studies, Michiel Jonker says that
North West: ‘People could kill for water here’
A searing wind blows against their visibly depressed faces in the blistering sun as they stand waiting alongside a string of water containers in the 40-degree heat. Residents of the Phelindaba township outside Sannieshof in North West’s Tswaing Local Municipality have no choice but to brave the heatwave. Water is
Households tap into boreholes – TimesLIVE
More South African households are turning to ground water from their gardens for their main water supply. However, the number of boreholes is not on the increase as existing ones are drying up at the same rate as new installations. "Yes, more boreholes are on stream because people are looking
Resident dies in queue | News24
A 56-YEAR-OLD man has died after waiting hours in the sun to get water in Senekal. The deceased, Sello Majang, was one of the many locals from the Matwabeng Location in Senekal waiting in long queues to get water from municipal water tankers. With a population of 27 000 people,
This is why the price of water needs to go up substantially – Moneyweb
Proposed revisions to South Africa’s water pricing strategy are as broad as they are complex, but what is clear is that water will become significantly more expensive in the future. The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWAS) has gazetted a draft of the revised water pricing strategy, which outlines a theoretical
Parliament’s water committee backs Operation Hydrate
Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Water and Sanitation has publicly come out in support of Operation Hydrate, describing the community-driven initiative, which has, to date, distributed over 350 000 ℓ of water to drought-stricken areas in the country, as a “true embodiment” of the spirit of Ubuntu. A group of community
Water convoy heads for drought-stricken Senekal | News24
Bloemfontein - Five trucks carrying water are on their way to drought-stricken Senekal and surrounding areas. The bottled water would leave Johannesburg for the Free State on Wednesday, Gift of the Givers Foundation chairperson Imtiaz Sooliman said on Tuesday. "Today we are meeting with the disaster management team to determine
WATCH: Dried up dam in South Africa leaves a whole town parched in ongoing drought – YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9oCflAe1s4U Published on Jan 9, 2016 South Africa is facing one of the worst droughts to hit the region in 30 years. Many small farmers are expected to go out of business as food production and prices increase, especially in the Free State province. Parts of that State have
South Africa: Drought leads to failed crops, water shortages
SENEKAL, South Africa (AP) — The main street of this dusty South African town is lined with empty buckets, marking each residents' place in line as they wait for their daily water ration to be brought in by unreliable trucks. Keeping watch over her buckets, Pulaleng Chakela sleeps in a
Let’s pull together to stave off drought disaster | Fin24
THIS is one of the nightmares I’ve woken up to on many a night: the sun gets hotter and hotter until we little human insects boil inside our own skins… Well, that’s what last week felt like, with the daily high edging closer and closer to 40 degrees Celsius, as
Baardskeerdersbos Tap water
Baardskeerdersbos (near Gansbaai) has reportedly had no water on 3 separate days in the past week or so & when it came back it is bright blue.
Polokwane experiencing severe water shortage – municipality | News24
Johannesburg - Most of the reservoirs in Polokwane, Limpopo are empty and the water levels at the remaining few are running critically low, the municipality said on Saturday. "The shortage is caused by rapid increase in consumption during the heat wave," spokesperson Tidimalo Chuene said. Since the early hours of Saturday
Without water, I wanted to commit suicide, says Senekal resident | News24
“On Monday it got too much for me and I wanted to commit suicide but I couldn’t do it – and two days later, a close friend committed suicide because of what we are facing in this town." She declined to divulge any information about her friend. “I too
No water, no vote, say thirsty Senekal residents | News24
Bloemfontein – Unless the taps start running with clean water soon, some Senekal residents have vowed not to vote in the local government elections this year. Waiting in line to collect water, with no reprieve from the scorching sun in the Free State town, people recounted how they had experienced
Drought kills thousands of livestock | IOL
Polokwane - Farmers in Limpopo continue to live in fear they may lose more livestock as the persistent drought continues, with at least 5,000 animals having been killed, according to preliminary figures by the province’s agriculture department. Farmer Davis Ramokolo has been farming for over 13 years. But, today, like
Declare drought a national disaster – AgriSA | News24
Cape Town - AgriSA has called for the drought to be declared a national disaster, as commercial and emerging farmers watch the devastation unfold around them. Omri van Zyl, executive director of AgriSA, said towns such as Senekal in the Free State were running out of drinking water. "People are leaving
South African Farmers May Seek International Aid as Drought Hits
South African farmers may seek international aid as the worst drought in decades threatens a regional food shortage, according to a farmers’ group. Farmers need as much as 20 billion rand ($1.27 billion), an estimate that will be revised after a more detailed industry assessment is completed at the end
Grain body says South Africa may need to import 5 mln tonnes of maize | Top News | Reuters
JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) - South Africa may need to import as much as 5 million tonnes of maize this year, roughly half of its requirements, because of its worst drought in three decades, the country's largest producer group said on Wednesday. The drought in the continent's biggest maize producer has been
Drought conditions hammer maize farmers | eNCA
BOTHAVILLE, Free State - Maize production in the country has taken a knock as drought conditions persist.As the window period for planting maize draws to an end and farmers fear for their livelihoods, the risk of a food crisis escalates. Agricultural Economist Adriaan Snyman said, “No one should under-estimate
South Africa’s Water Affairs Minister reveals the scale of the drought’s impact on rural communities and measures to alleviate it – Hippo Water Roller Project
Water Affairs Minister Nomvula Mokonyane recently revealed that the drought in South Africa currently affects 173 of the 1 628 water supply schemes nationally, serving approximately 2.7 million households. South Africa is in the fourth consecutive year of drier- than-average weather, with 2015 the most severe. Minister Mokonyane revealed the
South Africa May Import Almost Half of Corn Needs on Drought – Bloomberg Business
Imports could reach as much as 5 million tons by 2017 Farmers miss deadline for planting as dry conditions persist South Africa may need to import almost half of its domestic corn needs less than two years after being a net exporter as a drought exacerbated by the El Nino
test 9
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test 7
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test 6
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Hot as hell – Times LIVE
Emergency services are on high alert today with record-breaking temperatures expected. Children, the elderly and the sick are most vulnerable and have been advised to take precautions. Today's maximum temperatures are expected to be well above 40C across large parts of the country. On Tuesday, said the South African Weather
Heatwave intensifies as dam levels plunge 30% – Moneyweb
A heatwave in South Africa is intensifying, with temperatures forecast to reach 38 degrees Celsius (100 degrees Fahrenheit) in Johannesburg on Thursday, causing dam levels to drop as the country experiences its most severe drought since 1992. Seven towns and cities, including Kimberley in Northern Cape province, posted record-high temperatures
Here’s how you can help with the Water crisis in South Africa right now! – Good Things Guy
There is no way of sugar coating the current status of water scarcity in South Africa. Low rainfall has caused severe drought, and almost no water, leaving five out of our nine provinces declared disaster areas. Harrowing stories from children competing with cows for drinking water to farmers committing suicide, echoes over our barren land. While
Parts of Western Cape ‘are disaster areas’ | IOL
Cape Town - High level discussions between national and provincial disaster management teams will take place on Wednesday to finalise the classification of parts of the Western Cape as disaster areas due to the worsening drought plaguing the country. The teleconference will also deal with an application for millions in
Senekal households getting 50 litres of water a day | News24
Bloemfontein – More than 260 000 litres of water a day are being sent to drought-striken Senekal in the Free State, the Setsoto local municipality said on Tuesday.Each household received 50 litres per day, water services manager Thabo Mokhethoa said.The town had not had running water since December 14. Water
Cape Town implements water restrictions until further notice – Moneyweb
Cape Town intensified water restrictions as South Africa’s worst drought in more than two decades left the city’s dam levels lower than normal. Users are required to cut water consumption by 20% from 10%, the City of Cape Town municipality said in a statement on its website. The restrictions started
LISTEN: CapeTalk interview with Omri van Zyl
South African farmers have been hardest hit by the ongoing drought season, with a farmer in the Easten Cape committing suicide as a result. 702 and Cape Talk's John Maytham spoke to Omri van Zyl, executive director of Agri SA, about the matter. Listen to the interview below: One of
South Africans Drop Off Water to Help Overcome the Curse of El Niño – SAPeople – Your Worldwide South African Community
Water shortages are a reality (even if some people in Joburg still think it’s cool to water their gardens during the day, despite the water restrictions that have been in place for a while). The Mother City isn’t taking the requisite nine months to get it done – water restrictions
Desperate residents ‘drinking sewage water’ as taps run dry | News24
Durban – While parts of the country are battling minimal water supply as the drought crisis worsens – the community of Senekal, in the Free State, has reached desperate levels, with no water supply in the area for weeks. The situation has become so dire, that reports of people drinking
test 5
drinking water feeding water
test 4
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Extra water from Katse Dam released – South Africa | ReliefWeb
Pretoria –The Water and Sanitation Department says the release of extra water from the Katse Dam in Lesotho will bolster water supply and relieve the impact of the current drought. Margaret-Ann Diedricks, Water and Sanitation Director General, last week authorised the release of extra water from the Katse Dam. The
Drought: Farmer commits suicide a day before rain falls | News24
Bloemfontein – For Eastern Cape farmer Krisjan Kruger, 34, the consequences of the drought had simply become too much. Faced with the possibility that he could lose everything, he took his own life on Tuesday, a close friend said. Kruger leaves behind his mother. A friend, Jacques Roodt, told News24
Gloomy outlook as drought hits economy – The Standard
Analysts warned of a gloomy outlook worsened by unhelpful political bickering among government leaders and a looming bad agricultural season. Fears of drought come on the back of revelations that Zimbabwe has eight weeks’ supply of maize remaining due to delays by the Agriculture ministry in issuing permits to
Lesotho water to relieve impact of SA drought – Alive2greenAlive2green
The South African government’s Water and Sanitation Department says the release of water from the Katse Dam in Lesotho (pictured above) into the Orange River will bolster the water supply into South Africa and should relieve the impact of the current drought. Parts of the Eastern Cape’s Joe Gqabi District,
WATCH: What is the cost of South Africa’s worst drought since 1982? – Yes Africa
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=blQM7nYT08k From the maize-growing Free State and North West provinces which have already been designated disaster areas for agriculture to the sugar-growing province of KwaZulu-Natal and from what we’ve just heard-Mpumalanga which has a diverse agricultural base to Limpopo which accounts for a third of the world’s citrus crop
Water levels continue to drop in South Africa
The National Department of Water and Sanitation says water levels at South Africa’s dams are continuing to drop due to persisting drought. Department spokesperson Sputnik Ratau says the situation is still dire at provinces such as Limpopo, North West, Free State, and Kwazulu-Natal. The provinces have been declared disaster areas. Some
Health Hazard
Greetings As a concern community representative of Noordgesig/Diepkloof are in Soweto Johannesburg. We herby kindly inform and request water news assistance regarding the issue of acid mine drainage and storm dust from the mine dumps, into our areas mentioned above. The toxic mine chemicals that spills into our wetlands and
White maize climbs to 1996 record in SA | Fin24
Johannesburg - South African white maize increased to a record as the ongoing drought parched crops whose planting season is nearly over. White maize for delivery in July gained by the daily R80 limit, increasing 1.9% to R4 324 a metric tonne by midday on the Futures Exchange. That’s the
WATCH: Video Reveals Shocking Drought in Free State, South Africa 2015 – SAPeople – Your Worldwide South African Community
If you’ve been reading about the drought in South Africa and not sure just how bad it is, take a look at this footage uploaded to YouTube on Christmas Day by a user called ‘Phantom 3 Professional Drone Footage – See it from the Sky!’. Phantom said: “On the way to
Algoa FM | Orange river drying up and Aliwal North hit the hardest
Parts of the Eastern Cape's Joe Gqabi District have been without water due to a drought, with Aliwal North hit the hardest. Joe Gqabi Municipality Water services Manager, Dumisani Luswana told Algoa fm News that all water sources including Orange river are continuing to dry up. Luswana says the Municipality
WATCH: Free State facing drought as water levels decrease – YouTube
Published on Dec 28, 2015 The drought in the central parts of South Africa from Bloemfontein moving up to the western parts of the country has reached a critical stage. No significant rain has fallen over these areas since the start of the summer. Water supplies in Bloemfontein and other
South Africa el-nino concerns – YouTube
Published on Dec 27, 2015 South Africa is facing its worst drought in 30 years. Hot and dry weather conditions brought about by the el Nino weather phenomenon, has resulted in severe water shortages and food production, has been badly affected. 5 of the country's 9 provinces have been declared
‘Water ubuntu’ is key to crisis | IOL
There is no need for South Africa to suffer a water crisis because there are ways and means to ensure that available resources are used efficiently. Bringing back the concept of “water ubuntu” and making sure that what was available went around and was allowed to benefit everyone was important,
Worsening drought adds to woes of South African farmers
Under a midmorning sun that augured punishing heat later in the day, a handful of cows stood still inside a small pen, their ribs protruding. Too weak to reach the nearest grassy field some miles away, some munched on tall grass that their owner had cut from a strip of
Water cuts mean dry Christmas: Outcry after several BCM areas hit by outages | DispatchLIVE
Major water outages across Buffalo City Metro caused an outcry after residents from many suburbs and villages were left high and dry over the Christmas weekend. Areas affected included Zinyoka in King William’s Town, 28 villages in Chalumna, areas of Mdantsane, Kayser’s Beach, Needs Camp villages, Berlin, Ilitha and Mabeleni.
Lesotho gets clean water, thanks to Dh77m UAE aid – Khaleej Times
Abu Dhabi Fund for Development granted Dh77 million in concessionary loan towards the construction of Metolong Dam in South Africa. Finally, the people of the land-locked Lesotho in South Africa got their drinking water, thanks to Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD), which has granted Dh77 million in concessionary loan
UPDATE: Water in Welkom is now blood water – AfriForum – NEWS & ANALYSIS | Politicsweb
On the 20th and 21st November WaterNews.co.za reported the following 2 articles: http://waternews.co.za/video-welkoms-water-runs-red-blood-enca/ http://waternews.co.za/watch-abattoir-says-bloody-welkom-water-safe-drink-enca/ This is an update posted by AfriForum: Welkom’s drinking water now blood water Bloody water from an abattoir as well as raw sewage is contaminating the drinking water of Welkom in the Free State. Johan
Burst pipes, Joburg north urged to use water sparingly – The South Africa – SA News and info
JOHANNESBURG – Parts of northern Johannesburg are without water on Tuesday morning following a major pipe burst. It’s affected the same main line that burst a few days ago in the Randburg area. The Joburg Water team has been working around the clock to repair the damage, but the Linden
South Africa : Minister Nomvula Mokonyane hands over six water tankers to North West Government
South Africa : Minister Nomvula Mokonyane hands over six water tankers to North West Government Publish Date : 21-Dec-2015 Tendering of water supply services in the North West Province is slowly but surely being phased out. This steadfast stance emerged yesterday, Thursday 17 December at Moruleng village, where the Minister
Water to return to parts of JHB later on Tuesday | News24
Johannesburg - Water is only expected to return to Randburg and surrounding areas later on Tuesday after a pipe burst, Johannesburg Water said."There is a major burst main on the same line that burst last week at Republic [road]. [Our] team is onsite to begin repairs," it said on its
Burst pipes, Joburg north urged to use water sparingly | eNCA
Joburg Water has been working around the clock to repair the damage to a burst major pipe, but the Linden water tower has since run dry affecting the Robindale, Darrenwood, Ferndale, Linden and Blairgowrie areas. Photo: Flickr.com / Lazellion JOHANNESBURG - Parts of northern Johannesburg are without water on Tuesday
South Africa is in for a difficult 2016 – The South Africa – SA News and info
South Africa indeed faces a difficult 2016, Rian le Roux, Old Mutual Investment Group Chief Economist, warned this week. In addition to weak commodity prices, tighter monetary and fiscal policy and the impact of the drought, the recent rand rout following the financial ministers’ drama, will likely trigger a stronger
Water restrictions for Cape Town – The South Africa News
The city of Cape Town announced that level two water restrictions will be implemented from January 1. The city said in a statement that the restrictions are set to save 20% of the city’s daily water usage. “With level 2 restrictions approved, residents will be charged according to 20% reduction
Heavy rain causes Jo’burg flooding | News24
Johannesburg - Heavy rain has caused flooding in the Benoni area, on Johannesburg's East Rand on Thursday, paramedics said. Numerous collisions were reported, most of them minor, because of the rain and flooding, ER24 said. No injuries were reported. The N12 highway was affected as well as the Snake Road
SUNDAY TIMES – Parts of Joburg without water after major pipes burst
Parts of western and northern Johannesburg were without water Friday after two major pipes burst, events that will lead to at least five water storage facilities in South Africa’s biggest city running dry by the end of the day. The burst pipes are in the Randburg and Emmarentia areas, Johannesburg
Water for all says Zuma
Cape Town – With over R450 million spent on drought relief, government is ensuring that all residents have access to water, said President Jacob Zuma on Friday.In his end of year speech, he said the funds had been spent on motorised water tankers, borehole drilling and rehabilitation, and the improvement
SA to receive significant rainfall in March
South Africa is still facing water shortages with national dam levels dropping by at least by 1% in the past week. The South Africa Weather Service says the country will only receive significant rainfall around March next year. The Water and Sanitation Department's Sputnik Ratau says, "We've gone down, when
Rain brings little relief to KZN | News24
Durban – Umgeni Water has urged holidaymakers to use water sparingly as thousands descend on KwaZulu-Natal for the festive season.Umgeni Water spokesperson Shami Harichunder said the rains over the past two days had made little difference to the dangerously low Hazelmere dam, which is now 29.8% full after 25mm of
LISTEN: Water security is crucial to avoid a ‘water war’
Despite the end of droughts which recently saw water disruptions take place across the country, South Africa is still at risk of spiralling into a water war. 702's Azania Mosaka spoke to CEO of Water Research Commission, Dhesigen Naidoo, about his predictions of an eminent water war. Listen to the
South Africa’s dirty water crisis – African Business Magazine
South Africa’s clean water shortage is serious and it’s getting worse. It is not so much one of quantity. It’s one of mounting water quality deterioration which, at the current rate, will lead to a serious clean water shortage as early as 2025. Chronic scarcity is already being experienced in
Water cuts threatened as Mankweng residents protest over bills | eNCA
LIMPOPO - Residents of Mankweng staged protest and forced shops to close on Monday, demanding that the local Polokwane municipality reverse a council motion to cut water. It is estimated that residents owe the municipality R2-million for water, leading to the council recently issuing letters threatening disconnection. Shoppers from surrounding
Green thinking earns SA gold | The Citizen
Johannesburg and Cape Town honoured for initiatives to fight climate change. Cape Town and Johannesburg were recognised at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP21) in Paris as leaders in their fields for efforts in mitigating climate change. The City of Johannesburg was celebrated for its initiative in issuing a
We never know the worth of water until the well is dry | ActionAid
As South Africa and the rest of the world participated in climate negotiations in Paris this month, our government needs to acknowledge that without solving the social and environmental crises at a local level, we cannot even begin to push a progressive climate agenda at the international level. Until the
SA yet to sign agreement on Lesotho water project
The project will be Africa’s largest water transfer scheme. JOHANNESBURG – While water restrictions continue in some parts in the country due to the ongoing drought and old infrastructure, there have already been warnings about delays in completing the Lesotho Highlands Project. The project will be Africa’s largest water transfer
Level 2 water restrictions for Mother City | News24
Cape Town - The Cape Town City Council on Thursday approved level two water restrictions during its final council meeting for 2015. In a statement, the City said this would have implications on water accounts, while also getting residents to tighten up on their use. According to the amendment, when
Water dept repeats calls to save water
JOHANNESBURG – The Water and Sanitation Department has again urged residents to look at alternative water sources as sweltering temperatures continue to impact South Africa's supply. Parts of the country have experienced extreme drought due to a lack of rainfall since October. KwaZulu-Natal has been the hardest hit, with water
ANC municipalities said to owe R2,8 billion to water boards
ANC-governed municipalities owe respective water boards R2.8 billion for water services in 2014/2015. Many of the municipalities have been consistently in arrears for the past five years. The Democratic Alliance said on Thursday that this had been revealed in a written parliamentary reply to a question it had submitted. "Shockingly‚
SABC News – Worsening drought could push SA to import food:Wednesday 9 December 2015
Economists say South Africa could be forced to import more food as the effects of the local drought continue to be felt across the country. There are suggestions that Wednesday’s consumer price index (CPI) data, which shows that food inflation is at a seven-month high, is likely to continue rising
WATCH: SABC News – KZNs water levels in dams remain unchanged:Wednesday 9 December 2015
Click below for various videos on the drought problem in KZN. KwaZulu-Natal’s Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs says the water levels of dams in the province remain virtually unchanged. This is despite the heavy down pours in some parts of drought-stricken KZN in recent days. The Hazelmere Dam
WATCH: SABC News – N.West farmers in dire straits over severe drought:Wednesday 9 December 2015
Click below to watch the video: Farmers in the drought-stricken North West are in dire straits as some are now selling their assets to avoid being liquidated. Agri North West says the agricultural sector, government and the financial sector have to work together to find a speedy solution for the
AfriForum to take legal action against Department of Water and Sanitation – POLITICS | Politicsweb
AfriForum to approach courts over unqualified waterworks personnel 9 December 2015 The civil rights organisation AfriForum served the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) with a notice of intention to take legal action against the DWS for failing to provide the qualifications of employees who work on specified waterworks in South
WATCH: Science can solve many of Africa’s problems – Pandor | eNCA
Pretoria, 8 December 2015 - Thousands of scientists have gathered in Pretoria for the South African Science forum. The aim is to showcase African innovation to the world. Video: eNCA PRETORIA – Despite receiving minimal attention from most governments across the world, the science and innovation sectors had the potential
Ekurhuleni skimps on water management – DA | News24
Johannesburg - The Ekurhuleni metro has underspent on waste water management and water services, DA deputy chief whip Mike Waters says. This was in a metro which had experienced severe water outages lasting at least nine days, he told News24. According to the Gauteng Treasury's municipal consolidated budget statement for
‘Don’t blame El Niño’ – Times LIVE
The water crisis has been made worse by mismanagement and poor maintenance of critical water infrastructure, the DA said yesterday. In a report on visits to several water treatment plants throughout the country, released yesterday, DA spokesman Phumzile van Damme said: "Although the drought is a meteorological phenomenon, the crisis
Rain, rain… come again another day | Independent Online
Rain in KwaZulu-Natal in the past few days has done little to ease the effects of the drought. Source: Rain, rain… come again another day | Independent Online
Cape mulls ‘save water, save money’ plan | Independent Online
Cape Town homes will have to closely monitor their water usage, as the more you use could result in paying higher rates. Source: Cape mulls ‘save water, save money’ plan | Independent Online
South Africa: Water Crisis – DA Oversight Reveals Critical State of Infrastructure
press release By Leon Basson The ANC's mismanagement of our water infrastructure has brought South Africa to the brink of a water crisis that will have a disastrous humanitarian impact on all our people. As our country faces the worst drought since 1992, Minister of Water and Sanitation, Nomvula Mokonyane,
Carolina’s water woes indicate larger structural problems | Opinion | Analysis | M&G
Carolina in Mpumalanga has become a test case for what is wrong with water governance in South Africa, writes Sipho Kings. The last seven months has proved that too many people are responsible for providing water, which means the department supposed to run it doesn't have any authority to force
South Africa: Minister Nomvula Mokonyane Monitors Service Delivery Progress On Water and Sanitation in Fickburg – allAfrica.com
The Minister of Water and Sanitation, Nomvula Mokonyane took to the streets of Meqheleng in Ficksburg, Free State to monitor service delivery progress on water and sanitation. She was accompanied by the Free State Member of Executive Council (MEC) for Police, Road and Transport, Butana Komphela and three Mayors who
Water shortages hit Polokwane | News24
Polokwane - Polokwane is experiencing a severe water shortage, the municipality said on Saturday. Water levels at all of the municipalities’ reservoirs were critically low and some were already empty, spokesperson Tidimalo Chuene said in a statement. This followed a shutdown of supply by Lepelle Northern Water to allow for
R 670 billion needed for South Africa’s water infrastructure | JBAY News
Investment in South Africa’s water resources needs to double in the next 10 years if the country is to meet the growing demand, Water and Environmental Affairs Minister Edna Molewa said on Monday. “It’s going to require a lot of money but the demands require us to put more funding
‘1 unit of Medupi will need 7.8 million litres of fresh water to operate daily’ | News24
We speak to author and former journalist, James Brent-Styan, watch him tell us how South Africa can benefit from all forms of electricity. In his book, Blackout: The Eskom Crisis, Brent-Styan, unpacks the current state of the electricity crisis in SA. On nuclear power, the author says it is environmentally
Dam water levels concerning | eNCA
JOHANNESBURG - Waters levels at dams around the country are expected to remain a concern. That’s despite rain falling in parts of the country in the last few days. Experts say it’s too early to hope for an improvement on the water shortages. “Our rainy season normally starts in September.
Water: Decide now on Lesotho 2, acid mine drainage projects – Prof
JOHANNESBURG (miningweekly.com) – The Cabinet Ministers responsible for approving the second phase of the Lesotho Highlands Water Scheme should be asked to explain why this important project is being delayed – and should also be pressed to take decisions on acid mine drainage (AMD) projects as new sources of short-term
The smart approach to water risk management | Bernard Jacobs | LinkedIn
After being in and around the international water industry for the past 15 years I believe I can confidently say that there are certainly more than enough water treatment solutions available to treat any type of water problem. What I have also noticed is that most people who implement a
South Africa: Cape Town Water Restrictions Could Be Upped – allAfrica.com
By Kaveel Singh, News24 Cape Town's mayoral committee said on Tuesday it had approved the stepping up of water restrictions to level two. In a statement the city said the item will now go before council for deliberation on December 10. "As we are situated in a water-scarce region, the
Drought SA: the gateway to managing water scarcity
The South African Water Research Commission has launched a website that teaches people about being water wise. One of the messages is that this includes taking action to solve any water problems, as well as respecting water and all life. You can also work out your water footprint. Melissa Javan
water pipe burst
Water pipe has burst and pouring a river down the road.
WATCH: Documentary – Blue Gold
In every corner of the globe, we are polluting, diverting, pumping, and wasting our limited supply of fresh water at an expediential level as population and technology grows. The rampant over development of agriculture, housing and industry increase the demands for fresh water well beyond the finite supply, resulting in
300 pupils and no running water | News24
East London - Mahlubini Junior Secondary School near Cofimvaba has close to 300 pupils, no electricity in the classrooms and no running water. The school gets water from a few rainwater tanks. But when GroundUp visited the school last week, the gutters were broken and there was no water available.
Hammanskraal residents drinking contaminated water | The Citizen
“Traces of human or animal faeces are present.” Residents in some parts of Hammanskraal, north of Pretoria have been drinking contaminated water that is unfit for human consumption. This is according to a report from an independent laboratory who conducted three samples of water tests in that area following a
Cape Town tightens water curbs | National | BDlive
CAPETONIANS will have to fork out or reduce water usage after new restrictions were given the green light, placing residents in the same situation as those in Johannesburg and Durban, which are also affected by a prolonged dry spell. Cape Town’s mayoral committee approved the implementation of proposed Level 2
SABC News – Government establishes National Water Plan: Wednesday 2 December 2015
Water and Sanitation Minister, Nomvula Mokonyane, says the government has established a National Water Master Plan that will help it to address the issues of water shortages that the country is currently facing. South Africa is facing one of the worst droughts in its history. Speaking at the New Age
‘Climate change already affecting SA’ – Politics | IOL Beta
NEWS / 30 November 2015 at 12:35am By: ANA reporter Johannesburg - South Africa is already feeling the negative effects of global warming, the Presidency said on Monday ahead of the Paris climate change summit. In a statement the Presidency quoted Environmental Affairs Minister Edna Molewa as saying: “The
Msunduzi tackles water shortages | News24
THE Msunduzi Municipality is tackling water shortages and water leaks in the city. Msunduzi Municipality’s acting communications and marketing manager Nqobile Madonda said that the communication plan for tackling the issue will end in January, 2016, however it can be adjusted accordingly depending on weather patterns. “The prolonged lower-than-normal rainfall
Level 2 water restrictions approved for CT
Shamiela Fisher | CAPE TOWN – The City of Cape Town's mayoral committee has approved the implementation of level 2 water restrictions. The proposal will be deliberated at a council meeting on 10 December. The city imposes level 1 restrictions, which is a 10 percent saving at all times. The
Extremely hot conditions expected – SA Weather Services | News24
Johannesburg – The South African Weather Service has issued a warning as extremely high temperatures are expected on Monday. SA Weather Services said extreme high fire danger conditions are expected for the interior of the Northern Cape, West Coast District, Cape Winelands and the Central and Little Karoo of the
WATCH: Water Commission says current drought was expected
Masa Kekana | JOHANNESBURG – The Water Research Commission said the current drought was expected. The commission is hosting a series of information-sharing sessions about the drought that has stricken the country Experts say it’s unclear when the drought will end and behaviours need to be changed to preserve water.
WATCH: Water: We need to act on the warning signs – YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OvilgWjkKjk
SA cabinet the worst in 21 years: DA report card
In 2015, President Zuma has presided over the worst performing Cabinet in 21 years, according to the 2015 edition of the Democratic Alliance’s report card. The DA said its assessment of President Zuma and his Cabinet reflects an unaccountable government that prioritises the ANC above ordinary South Africans. “This year
Cape to declare water disaster – news | IOL Beta
BUSINESS / 27 November 2015 at 04:08am By: Tshepiso Mokhema Johannesburg - South Africa’s Western Cape province will ask the national government to classify the region’s water shortages as a disaster, enabling farmers to apply for financial assistance, it said. “Our assessments of the provincial water situation found more
Drought is still here so use water wisely | Mpumalanga News
The rain that has been falling over the past few days must not fool us to think that the worst is over. Themba Khoza of Mbombela writes: The rain that has been falling over the past few days must not fool us to think that the worst is over.
Western Cape to declare water disaster – Moneyweb
South Africa’s Western Cape province will ask the national government to classify the region’s water shortages as a disaster, enabling farmers to apply for financial assistance, it said. “Our assessments of the provincial water situation found more than one region or district municipality in the province is experiencing very dry
Water & Sanitation on drought situation | South African Government
South Africa is not out of the woods, says a hydrologist The recent intermittent rainfalls in parts of the country have had little or no effect on the current drought that has engulfed most parts of South Africa. Instead, dam levels continue to drop alarmingly, causing more anxiety in their
SANParks announces drastic measures to combat drought | Traveller24
Cape Town - South African National Parks (SANParks) has adopted disaster management principles to help fight the current drought in SA in the country's national parks. SANParks issued a statement saying they "will remain true to the conservation ethics as the dry conditions continue, managing as far as possible for healthy,
Botswana set to draw water from Lesotho Highlands Project
Arid Botswana has finalised a deal with South Africa and Lesotho to tap some of the water from the Lesotho Highlands Water Project. Botswana’s Minister of Mineral, Energy and Water Resources Minister, Onkodame Kitso Mokaila confirmed this at a conference in Gaborone on the diamond industry. Botswana’s Minister of Mineral,
South African drought gives a glimpse of what future climate change may bring
Agriculture hit as country suffers worst shortages since the 1930s The ongoing drought in South Africa, which has decimated harvests and livestock and forced urban water restrictions, is providing a frightening glimpse of the climatic future experts predict for the country unless appropriate adaptation measures are introduced. The African continent’s
LISTEN: SABC News – SA to see increase in water related diseases: Sama:Tuesday 24 November 2015
The South African Medical Association (Sama) says South Africa is likely to experience water related diseases in the next 20 years as a results of climate change. Sama says five provinces that are declared drought disaster areas will soon experience an increase in water related diseases. The country's persistent heat
Easy, effective ways to save water in the home | News24
A FAMILY of four can use anything between 300 and 800 litres of water in the home per day. This is a large amount considering that many people in the world use as little as 25 litres of water per person per day, or six kilolitres of water per household
Greytown water update | News24
A SPOKESPERSON for the Department of Water and Sanitation told the Greytown Gazette, in response to a query, that the Greytown drought meeting venue has been moved to Dundee in order to ensure better representation from the Umzinyathi District Municipality officials and due to the need to also deal with
LISTEN: Seawater: An alternative to solving the water crisis
JOHANNESBURG – As South Africa faces water problems, there are suggestions around the need for alternative water sources. https://soundcloud.com/primediabroadcasting/making-use-of-sea-water-as-an-alternative-to-solve-water-crisis Desalinating seawater is one of the suggestions and Professor Anthony Turton from the Centre for Environmental Management at the University of the Free State (UFS) has. Turton says that seawater cannot
Climate change will mean more water-borne diseases: South African medics – Times LIVE
As if the drought has not caused enough damage to the economy and food production‚ the South African Medical Association has warned that climate change will produce a surge in water-borne diseases. SAMA issued a statement on Monday saying that the direct and indirect effects of climate change would include
WATCH: Centurion burst pipe spews gallons of water | Centurion Rekord
Residents could not drive through the water streaming down the road. PHOTO: Supplied A burst pipe sent thousands of litres of water down the roads of Rooihuiskraal north, Centurion, on Monday morning. Ward 69 Councillor Marietha Aucamp said the pipe burst in the early hours of the morning on the
Family has no water for 5 months | Ladysmith Gazette
For the past five months, the Beukes family living at 37 First Street, Limit Hill, has been living without water. They claim to have called uThukela on numerous occasions, but that no attempt has been made by the district municipality to come and fix the problem. Since moving into the house, they have had no water meter and
Joburg Water is tardy about leaks – Gauteng | IOL Beta
Johannesburg - The water crisis in Joburg is temporarily over. Joburg Water said on Sunday that the heavy rains during the past week have offered some relief, but level 2 restrictions are still in place and that Joburg residents should be using water sparingly. “The water reservoirs are currently fine,
The 17-year water leak | News24
Pietermaritzburg - A burst pipe in Howick has allegedly been gushing kilolitres of water every day for the last 17 years.The burst pipe’s constant flow of wasted drinking water is well hidden across the Umgeni River opposite Siphumelele in the town. Large pools of water cover metres of soil surrounding
Water crisis just got expensive. | MCRS
South Africa will need R570-billion for investment in the water value chain in the next 10 years, says the department of environmental affairs. Over R570-billion will be needed for investment across South Africa’s water value chain, in the coming 10 years, according to Minister for Water and Environmental Affairs Edna
Climate change: Will SA run out of water? | News24
Three professors from Wits University predict difficult times ahead for the country in their new book Climate Change: Briefings from South Africa. In these two extracts, Robert Scholes, Mary Scholes and Mike Lucas ask how hot it will get and when we will run out of water. How hot will
KZN implements 50% water restrictions | eNCA
South Africa Monday 23 November 2015 - 7:16am File: Some areas north of Durban will now receive only half their regular supply, following critically low rainfall. Photo: AFP PHOTO / FRANCK FIFE DURBAN - Parts of KwaZulu-Natal are waking up to tougher water restrictions. Some areas north of Durban will
The drought will impact your investments – Moneyweb
Donald Rumsfeld: ‘When you don’t know what you don’t know, then you are at the greatest risk’. Sungula Nkabinde | 23 November 2015 00:30 Drought, corn, farm Investors should start paying attention to how the companies they invest in will be affected by water scarcity, both in the short and
KZN turns to boreholes as drought worsens | News24
Pietermaritzburg - With the massive drought crippling most of KwaZulu-Natal, emphasis has been placed on borehole systems to save communities without water. Although borehole projects in KZN are not new, there is a demand for them now more than ever before as areas across the province run out of surface
WATCH: Alternative sanitation solutions could ease SA water issues | eNCA
Sasolburg, 21 November 2015 - Between thirty and forty percent of household water is wasted flushing the toilet. If South Africa wants to solve its water crisis we may need to look away from the tap and to the toilet bowl. Video: eNCA JOHANNESBURG – If South Africa wants to
WATCH: Joburg Water says gushing burst pipe under control | eNCA
South Africa Saturday 21 November 2015 - 4:22pm 21 November 2015 - Thousands of litres of water are literally going down the drain in a Johannesburg street. A burst pipe on the busy Jan Smuts Avenue near Rosebank has now been gushing water for the past 16 hours. Video: eNCA
WATCH: Opinion Journal: Let There Be Water
Entrepreneur Seth Siegel discusses his new book on innovative Israeli technology and its potential to bring clean water to the developing world. Photo credit: Getty Images. Source: Opinion Journal: Let There Be Water
WATCH: Abattoir says ‘bloody’ Welkom water is safe to drink | eNCA
South Africa Saturday 21 November 2015 - 3:57pm Free State, 21 November 2015 - Welkom residents can rest assured their tap water is safe to drink and doesn't contain any blood. This despite several reports claiming the town's drinking water may be contaminated by blood flowing from a local abattoir.
Four things you should know about water-shedding – Times LIVE
The Free State is the first province in the country to implement scheduled water-shedding across all municipalities. Here are four things you should know about water-shedding: • Each municipality saves more than one million litres of water per day thanks to water-shedding. • South Africa loses more than R7 billion per year in
South Africa is not in a water crisis – Nomvula Mokonyane – NEWS & ANALYSIS | Politicsweb
Nomvula Mokonyane | 20 November 2015 Minister says that our water security as a country is intact and no immediate or medium term threats to such security are foreseen Water Security for All Over the last few weeks, there has been much speculation and debate on the water security of
VIDEO: ‘Households must store water, not waste it’
Gia Nicolaides & Xolani Koyana | about 9 hours ago JOHANNESBURG/CAPE TOWN - Gauteng residents are being urged to change their behaviour towards water consumption and start harvesting the resource in case the taps run dry. The provincial government, Rand Water and various stakeholders have embarked on a mass campaign