Government says it’s introducing a new licence that will allow water entities to outsource the bolstering of water and sanitation services to
private contractors.

It made the announcement at the National Water and Sanitation Indaba at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand Johannesburg.

The aim of the Indaba is to highlight government’s commitment to tackling South Africa’s water security challenges.

Deputy President Paul Mashatile will officially close the two-day Indaba which President Cyril Ramaphosa opened yesterday.

Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister Sello Seitloholo says, “We are introducing a licence system to say that where a water services authority is able to appoint a capable water service provider, in this instance, we can make an example of Rand Water…which can bring in a private sector but someone that can fundamentally deal with the issue of water provision and sanitation…And the revenue that has been generated from the sale of water services must go back into the water and sanitation infrastructure.”

Water Indaba | Ensuring sustainable water and sanitation: 

Infrastructure issues in the Free State 

Lack of access to water is a common headache for many towns in the Free State.

From inconsistent supply to taps that are completely dry – several community have left reeling.

The province has been battling various water challenges that have been exacerbated by poor infrastructure.

SA Water Crisis | Free State struggles to provide access to clean water: 

-Additional reporting by Makgala Masiteng