WORLD WATER DAY @KASIBCNEWS

The African National Congress (ANC) joins the global community in commemorating World Water Day, reaffirming our commitment to universal access to clean water and dignified sanitation for all South Africans. 

Water is a fundamental human right, enshrined in our Constitution, and central to the dignity and well-being of all South Africans. Under ANC leadership, we have made unprecedented strides in reversing the apartheid-era exclusion that denied millions of our people access to clean water. 

In 1994, over 15.2 million people lacked basic water supply, while 20.5 million had no proper sanitation. Today, 82.4% of households have access to piped water, and 84.1% have improved sanitation. The ANC-led government has completed building of 18 new dams, additionally there are 14 major water infrastructure projects currently under construction, securing raw water supply for generations to come. 

Despite this progress, we acknowledge the ongoing challenges of aging infrastructure, water losses, and corruption that undermines service delivery. Water security is now a national priority. 

The January 8 Statement and State of the Nation Address have outlined decisive steps to accelerate service delivery, improve maintenance, and eradicate backlogs. 

We call on municipalities to fix leaks, invest in infrastructure, and root out corruption, including tackling the water tanker mafia. We further encourage communities, government, and the private sector to work together in preserving and managing our water resources. 

Every South African must use water responsibly and report illegal connections and wastage. 

The ANC remains resolute in delivering water to every household, township, and rural village. Water is life. Water is dignity. 

The struggle continues!