Water in South Africa has become a critically scarce resource, the country is facing a serious challenge of water blackout caused by the El Niño phenomenon, with dry weather conditions, some part of the country have been declared disaster areas.
Water Affairs and Sanitation Minister Nomvula Mokonyane reported that the drought has already affected 173 of the 1 628 water supply schemes nationally affecting about 2.7 million households in the country. It has affected more than just communities as dams go dry leaving animals/ stock with no alternative to quench their thirst. It is having a negative impact in the agriculture sector, farmers are the most affected and South Africa may have to look at neighbouring countries to share resources. Experts believe that the price of food is likely to go up, despite the fact that we import some of it. This is bound to have a negative impact in the Economy as most stand to lose their jobs.
Authorities have since called on all South African to save water by all means possible. It is believed that 37% of South Africa’s water is lost in leakages with an estimated cost of $ 500 million a year. People are advised to use water sparingly. Change behaviour in the handling of water is the core solution. In an interview with Mail and Guardian, Dr Antony Turton, a private water expert says that the changing climate has to be seen as a risk to development, and so any future plans have to involve a lowering of water intensity and trade-offs between the different sectors of the economy. Dr Turton continued to motivate that “People have to understand that water cannot be created and what we have now is as much as there ever will be.” Meanwhile the Western Cape Government has expressed its concerns over the looming water shortages particularly in the Cederberg and Matzikama Local Municipalities as a result of the low level of the Clanwilliam Dam. Anton Bredell‚ Minister of Local Government‚ Environmental Affairs and Development Planning‚ said that while the Clanwilliam Dam level was currently 88% full‚ this was regarded as critically low for this period of the year and encouraged everyone to use water wisely even if there is no defined shortage in a particular region.
Some tips to saving water:
- If you are making coffee, measure your water according to the number of cups you want to serve.
- Do not leave the tap running the entire time when brushing your tooth, it is better to use a glass, and always ensure that you do not leave the tap leaking after use.
- It is best to water your garden at night, because of the moisture.
- Sweep you driveway instead of hosing it.
- Always report any bursts or leakages to authorities (0860 103 089).
- Visit this page for more water saving tips.