Water Security

The water security domain in SAForSTI 2030 aims to address water wastage, pollution, and usage challenges, focusing on rural areas. Despite the importance of water recycling, the country lags, especially in tailoring technologies to its unique environment. Although efforts to deliver breakthrough technologies increases in small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMMEs) in the water sector and enhanced rural water access exists, South Africa still needs to improve potency and management challenges. Neglecting water issues poses severe risks to economies, livelihoods, and populations, potentially leading to catastrophic consequences. Weak hydrological monitoring systems, data storage and sharing issues, reliance on outdated data, and managing complexity in growing cities hinder progress. Key policy considerations in water security include the need to synergize the National Water RDI Roadmap, the national water and sanitation master plan, and the water components of the industrial policy action plan. Improved coordination among institutions engaged in water research, innovation, and deployment is crucial. Supporting co-learning platforms and developing a clear framework delineating the roles of relevant parties in the water sector are also recommended to address the complex challenges faced by South Africa in water security.