Midrand: The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that all South Africans have access to sustainable water and sanitation services. Addressing the Commission on Policy Review and Legislative Reforms, the department’s Deputy Director-General Dr. Risimati Mathye emphasised that water is not only a basic human right but the cornerstone of health, dignity, and economic growth, which must therefore be managed and delivered with long-term sustainability in mind.
According to South African Government News Agency, the two-day gathering brought together leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to reflect on the past 25 years of democratic local government and to chart an agenda for the next 25 years. Dr. Mathye stated, “The department remains steadfast in its mission to close existing service gaps while preparing for the future. By working together with municipalities, businesses, and communities, we can ensure that every drop counts and that no South African is left behin
d when it comes to access to water and sanitation.”
He outlined the department’s plans which include the professionalisation of local government, legislative reforms to strengthen oversight, the establishment of an independent water sector regulator, and the development of a national water action plan. These measures will be complemented by Phase 2 of Operation Vulindlela, which focuses on accelerating structural reforms to drive sustainable and inclusive growth.
Operation Vulindlela was established in October 2020 as a joint initiative of the Presidency and National Treasury. Within the water and sanitation sector, Phase 2 seeks to streamline regulatory processes, enhance infrastructure investment through public-private collaboration, and establish efficient institutions such as the National Water Resources Infrastructure Agency (NWRIA) and Catchment Management Agencies (CMAs). These reforms are designed to improve efficiency, ensure better management of water resources, and secure long-term water sustaina
bility for all.