5 wishes for the water sector

4) Detailed studies should be conducted to understand how much water is available, how much water is used, as well as water losses within different basins. These studies help us to understand, prioritise and plan for water security.

5) The DWS needs more resources for its Compliance, Monitoring and Enforcement Division. People, companies and government entities that compromise the quality and quantity of our water must face consequences.

What are the barriers to this change? Budgeting and skills shortages. I think that some of the water and wastewater treatment works could be run as PPPs, with funding from the private sector. There are municipalities that are lacking the skills and experience to run water and sanitation departments.

I have also met a lot of qualified, experienced and passionate water professionals within the public sector but they often lack the authority to implement policy, projects and programmes that are needed to improve the sector.

I would like to see hydrologists included in more water policies and projects, and for the sector to tap into the extensive knowledge of our professors.

As a hydrologist, have you observed any changes in the way hydrologists think about/tackle water?

There is a massive emphasis on climate change. For example, if there is a 10% reduction in rainfall within an area, the vegetation will change, which will influence run-off into rivers. Hydrologists are now constantly trying to understand the impact of climate change within a catchment area.

Is there any reason to be optimistic about the water and sanitation sector in South Africa?

I have witnessed a positive shift with how mines and industry view water. There is a huge focus on using the least amount of water possible and creating the least amount of waste. They are also ensuring that their surrounding communities receive sufficient water that is of good quality.