Water quality in South Africa: reports show what needs to be fixed, and at what cost 

In Hammanskraal, South Africa, 23 residents have died from cholera since May 2023. Poor water quality was initially assumed to be the cause of the outbreak. The Department of Water and Sanitation’s recent reports, known as the Blue Drop, Green Drop, and No Drop Watch Reports, reveal the deteriorating status of water services across the country. 

The reports indicate that only 38% of water treatment systems achieved excellent microbiological water quality, while the majority of treatment plants failed to meet chemical compliance standards. Wastewater treatment works showed a deterioration in compliance, and there was a significant increase in water losses due to leakages and non-revenue water. The reports also highlight the challenges faced by water services, including lack of funding, vandalism, sewage losses, and deteriorating infrastructure. 

The Department of Water and Sanitation acknowledges the need for better governance, monitoring, reporting, operating procedures, and infrastructure investment. The reports serve as a step towards transparency and revealing the truth about the water crisis.  

Building a stronger economy is crucial for investing in water infrastructure and services, which in turn will improve healthcare and disease prevention. 

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