Crime syndicates have a new target in South Africa 

South Africa is facing a water crisis marked by poor water infrastructure, inadequate management, and criminal syndicates sabotaging critical pipelines. The Department of Water and Sanitation’s report revealed that half of the country’s drinking water is of poor quality.  

Inefficient management is identified as the primary cause of failing water infrastructure. Criminal activities, including theft, vandalism, and targeting sewage systems, worsen the situation. Copper theft and the stripping of key water infrastructure contribute to unreliable water supply in some municipalities.  

Fixing the water infrastructure is a costly challenge, with an estimated R900 billion ($49 billion) needed for water supply and storage infrastructure by 2030. The government is urged to involve experienced engineers in planning and prioritize addressing the water crisis. 

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