10 Eye-Opening Facts About South Africa’s Water Crisis

This article outlines critical facts regarding South Africa’s water crisis, highlighting that 50% of potable water is lost due to inefficiencies, 3 million citizens lack basic water access, and 40% less rainfall than the global average aggravates the situation. The agricultural sector consumes the bulk of water resources, pointing to an urgent need for improved management and compliance by water authorities.

Water remains an essential resource, especially highlighted by the South African Department of Water and Sanitation, which refers to it as “life.” As World Water Day approaches, it becomes crucial to reflect on the water situation both globally and within South Africa itself. Here are several key insights regarding water scarcity in this nation.

In South Africa, 50% of potable water is classified as Non-Revenue, indicating significant losses attributed to system inefficiencies and leaks. Furthermore, over 3 million South Africans lack access to a basic water supply, predominantly affecting those in informal settlements. Notably, 52% of individuals residing in these areas around Johannesburg resort to digging their own pit latrines to meet sanitation needs.

Globally, the United Nations Development Programme reports that 443 million school days are forfeited each year due to illnesses linked to insufficient access to clean water. Tragically, the South African Human Rights Commission states that 115 individuals in Africa perish every hour due to diseases related to inadequate sanitation and contaminated water.

South Africa receives 40% less rainfall than the global average, exacerbating its water scarcity. Despite this, the nation averages 237 liters of water use per person daily, exceeding the global average of 173 liters. Notably, the agricultural sector consumes 61% of the nation’s water, with households accounting for 27% and industry utilizing 7%.

According to the latest Blue Drop Report, of South Africa’s 144 Water Services Authorities, 24 have made no efforts to comply with Blue Drop standards, while 40 are deemed to be in a critical condition. The Water Services Act sets a basic water supply standard of 25 liters per person per day; during the ‘Day Zero’ water restrictions in Cape Town, the average consumption was 50 liters per individual per day.

In conclusion, South Africa’s water crisis highlights significant challenges such as inefficiencies leading to high water loss, lack of access, and alarming public health risks stemming from inadequate sanitation. The data presents a grim picture that underscores a critical need for better management and conservation of water resources. It is essential for both local communities and authorities to address these issues to ensure equitable access to clean water for all citizens.

Original Source: infrastructurenews.co.za