Cabinet has welcomed the release of the National Water Action Plan, which sets out strategic interventions to ensure a reliable supply of quality water to all South Africans while addressing the root causes of the country's water challenges.
The plan, which was released recently following a meeting of the National Water Crisis Committee (WATERCOM), sets out short-, medium-, and long-term interventions to tackle the root causes of persistent water supply challenges affecting municipalities, communities, and businesses.
Among the measures outlined in the plan are increased investment in water infrastructure, including through private-sector participation, legal and regulatory reforms to improve municipal service delivery, and efforts to tackle corruption and criminality in the water sector.
WATERCOM, which is chaired by President Ramaphosa, was established following the 2026 State of the Nation Address in response to increasingly severe water supply interruptions in parts of the country.
The committee brings together government departments and public agencies responsible for implementing the plan, as well as the South African Local Government Association (SALGA).
In his weekly newsletter to the nation on Monday, President Ramaphosa assured citizens that government is focused on the implementation of the plan to ensure the delivery of running water for all South Africans, regardless of their location.
National Water Access Acceleration Programme launch commended
Cabinet also commended the launch of the National Water Access Acceleration Programme, which was unveiled on International Nelson Mandela Day, 18 July 2026, alongside the rollout of 67 decentralised water supply schemes in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Eastern Cape.
The schemes comprise boreholes and package water treatment plants aimed at expanding access to safe drinking water in unserved rural communities that currently lack reliable water services.
Briefing media on the outcomes of Wednesday's Cabinet meeting in Pretoria, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said the projects represent the first phase of the Department of Water and Sanitation’s National Water Access Acceleration Programme, which is being implemented through water boards under the Water Services Act.
“More than R200 million has been allocated to Phase One of the programme, which combines borehole drilling, groundwater development, spring protection, rainwater harvesting, and rehabilitation of existing water infrastructure to expand access to safe drinking water,” the Minister highlighted.
As part of a broader public infrastructure investment programme, government earlier this year, allocated R156 billion to water and sanitation infrastructure over the next three years. The investment will support the expansion and maintenance of water infrastructure, improve supply reliability, and address water and sanitation challenges affecting communities across the country.
Framework for water and sanitation services
Meanwhile, Cabinet approved the publication of the draft Strategic Framework for Water and Sanitation Services for a 60-day public comment period.
The reviewed framework sets sector targets, responds to emerging challenges and developments, and aligns the sector with national priorities and global best practices.
“It emphasises climate resilience, environmental integration, financial sustainability, urban-rural vulnerability gaps, digital transformation, and improved sector planning and delivery.
The strategy is intended to strengthen sector governance, improve planning and delivery, and support the provision of sustainable, reliable, and equitable water and sanitation services for all South Africans,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
