Media statement by Professor Mthunzi Mdwaba, UDM Candidate for Premier in Gauteng

The United Democratic Movement (UDM) expresses grave concern over the current City of Johannesburg failure to uphold the constitutional right to safe drinking water. As the country approaches elections, the lack of a viable solution to South Africa’s escalating water crisis is more apparent than ever.

Years of inadequate foresight and strategic planning have left the nation ill-prepared to handle the water scarcity issues we face today. With a damning report released earlier this year highlighting the severity of the crisis, the response from the government has been lacklustre and reactive.

“Given the current administration’s track record, it’s evident that a new approach is desperately needed,” remarks UDM’s Gauteng Premier Candidate, Professor Mthunzi Mdwaba. The UDM criticises the government’s delayed and inadequate responses, especially following recent statements by Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation, David Mahlobo, which only highlight the urgency without offering substantive action plans.

With Johannesburg being only second to Durban in terms of water leakages at over 48%, all the citizen services issues similarly to electricity load shedding and potholes on the roads amongst others, point to a failure of management, leadership and maintenance and upkeep of the infrastructure. The longer it is left unattended, the more ruinous it gets.

Due to population growth, a Departmental study has shown that water demand will significantly outpace supply over the next two decades, predicting a 17% supply deficit by 2030. This alarming trend underscores the necessity for a complete overhaul of the nation’s water management strategies.

The UDM calls for robust, proactive measures to address this crisis head-on. This includes significant investment in infrastructure, adoption of modern technologies for water management, and a strategic partnership with global experts to integrate successful practices from around the world.

The UDM demands immediate action to review and restructure South Africa’s water management policies. This critical situation requires not just national attention but immediate and comprehensive policy action to ensure the sustainability of our water resources and the safety of our communities.