The risk of aging infrastructure, South Africa’s aging water infrastructure is putting immense pressure on the country’s already limited safe and reliable water supplies. According to Unisa Professor of Geography Anja du Plessis, who specializes in water resource administration, the country’s deplorable 64% access to usable water is being severely impacted by failing infrastructure that is more than three decades old.
Infrastructure across South African provinces is becoming less efficient by the day. Rapid population growth, urbanization, and climate change are adding further strain on the systems needed to distribute, treat, and dispose of water and wastewater, as well as generate electricity. South African businesses lose billions annually due to plant downtime and repairs, with aging infrastructure being a primary culprit. Many facilities built during the infrastructure boom of the late 90s are approaching-or have already surpassed-the critical 20–30-year mark.
A Water Research Commission (WRC) study revealed that South Africa loses approximately 1.58 billion kiloliters of water annually, or just under 132 million kiloliters per month. This volume could fill one-third of the country’s largest dam, the Gariep Dam. The water loss costs South Africa around R7.2 billion per year.
The consequences of failing infrastructure extend far beyond inconvenience. They include serious injuries, health hazards, fatalities, and extensive property damage-not to mention income loss, reputational damage, and potential bankruptcy. The risks involved in energy production and distribution for water infrastructure management are particularly concerning.
Risks of Aging Infrastructure
Health
Approximately 80% of untreated wastewater flows back into the environment. This contaminated wastewater threatens South African groundwater supplies that are crucial for rural communities, informal settlements, and ecosystems.
Economic
Infrastructure forms the foundation of a thriving economy by attracting investments and creating essential employment and business opportunities.
We specialize in modernizing South African infrastructure to enhance international competitiveness and secure the country’s future. Contact our team to learn more about our innovative solutions.
