By: Pamella Majola
The Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation, David Mahlobo, has called for bold innovation, cross-border collaboration, and sustainable practices to address the escalating global water crisis, which is increasingly affecting both developed and developing nations.
Speaking at a recent water symposium, Mahlobo emphasised that South Africa’s growing water scarcity demands urgent, transformative action and warned that the crisis can no longer be treated as “business as usual”. He noted that shifting rainfall patterns, population growth, ageing infrastructure, and pollution are placing immense pressure on the country’s already strained water systems.
Mahlobo also stressed the importance of integrating indigenous knowledge systems and research into water management solutions, noting that these traditional practices are not only rooted in deep ecological understanding but also represent a form of science that modern technology can complement and build upon.
“Indigenous knowledge offers time-tested insights into sustainable water use, conservation, and community management. We must value this knowledge and incorporate it into our scientific and technological frameworks,” he said.
South Africa is considered a water-scarce country, receiving an average annual rainfall of about 465 mm, well below the global average of 985 mm. With projections indicating increased climate variability, the need for resilient, inclusive, and adaptive water strategies has become more pressing than ever.
In line with the Department of Water and Sanitation’s mandate, Mahlobo urged all stakeholders, including researchers, policymakers, communities, and regional partners, to work together in safeguarding the country’s water resources for future generations.
