There is no one-size-fits-all solution to South Africa’s water challenges and it will take a multifaceted approach to mitigate the strain on the country’s complex water sector.

South Africa's water scarcity is exacerbated by aging infrastructure – which struggles to meet current, let alone future, demands – budget constraints and regional management discrepancies.

These challenges ripple across all aspects of society and industry, affecting everything from corporate productivity to basic operational hygiene in facilities.

There was a need for an overhaul of infrastructure, the adoption of advanced technologies, and a cultural shift towards conservation, said Tsebo Facilities Solutions head of engineering Ebrahim Patel.

Upgrading South Africa’s infrastructure, including modernising pipelines and constructing large underground water storage facilities, which will help mitigate supply interruptions and reduce losses owing to leaks, is critical.

“As urban expansion continues, the urgency for resilient infrastructure only escalates.”

While the refurbishment of key infrastructure is necessary, technology will also play a critical role in addressing water scarcity, as technologies enable real-time monitoring and adjustment of water distribution, significantly reducing wastage and improving overall water management efficiency.

However, these technological advancements and infrastructure upgrades must be complemented by a shift in societal attitudes towards water use.

“South Africa needs to foster a more water-conscious society, accentuating the importance of sustainable practices and the adoption of technologies like greywater recycling,” added Tsebo Facilities Management CEO Aubrey McElnea.

Further, investing in education and training is as important as investing in physical infrastructure, he continued, noting that, despite the benefits of investing in new water management technologies and infrastructure, challenges such as high costs and a lack of local expertise remained.

“The economic rationale for such investments is strong, as the cost of inaction could significantly hinder economic growth, particularly in sectors like agriculture and industry that are heavily dependent on water.”

McElnea pointed out that water management in South Africa was a complex issue that required comprehensive stakeholder engagement and cooperation across various sectors to ensure that solutions were inclusive and reflective of the diverse needs of the communities they serve.

Public-private partnerships were highlighted as a strategic model for pooling resources and expertise, accelerating the deployment of innovative solutions and ensuring sustainable management practices.

Patel underscored the importance of collaboration between the private sector, government and communities to address water management challenges comprehensively.

“By sharing expertise, resources and responsibilities, stakeholders can devise more effective strategies to tackle the water crisis head-on.

“Through strategic collaboration, technological advancement and community engagement, Tsebo is not just mitigating a crisis but reshaping the future of water management in South Africa, ensuring a secure, equitable and sustainable water supply for generations to come.”