Telecommunications company Vodacom Business, in partnership with Mezzanine, has launched a new platform designed to deliver, support and maintain critical water services for suppliers, municipalities and consumers.

The Digital Water Tower integrates geospatial consumption data, network topology maps and demand management reports with the aim of reducing water losses and optimising supply efficiency.

This follows a collaboration with the Strategic Water Partners Network (SWPN) to address the growing water security challenges in Gauteng, with Vodacom Business leveraging its digital solutions to drive enhanced water management and sustainable supply for the region.

“Our commitment to digital transformation extends beyond connectivity. We believe in using our technology capabilities to drive sustainable impact,” says Vodacom Business director Videsha Proothveerajh.

“By working with key stakeholders, including the public sector and industry partners, we are addressing current water challenges while laying the foundation for a more resilient future.”

Gauteng is facing a critical water crisis, with demand surpassing supply and nearly 40% of the water supply lost owing to infrastructure failures, theft and inefficiencies. Additionally, ageing and outdated municipal infrastructure has led to weaker revenue recovery and increased water losses.

To mitigate these challenges, the Digital Water Tower will be rolled out in two phases.

The first phase will collate and combine different types of existing data, such as water meter readings and consumer use reports, to analyse how water is being used.

In the second phase, the digital platform will perform impact assessments and determine and prioritise interventions, while helping to improve consumer and supplier services for efficient water monitoring and revenue assurance solutions.

“Providing real-time visibility and specific insights into Gauteng’s water services, the Digital Water Tower enables collaboration between citizens, municipalities and other stakeholders for long-term water security,” she says.