POLOKWANE MUNICIPALITY PARTICIPATES IN CRITICAL WATER AND SANITATION INDABA

Midrand | Friday, 28 March 2025 – As the first rays of dawn touched the bustling city of Johannesburg, an air of urgency and anticipation filled Gallagher Estate. Polokwane Municipality, led by Executive Mayor and SALGA Provincial Chairperson, Cllr Makoro John Mpe stepped into the arena of deliberation, ready to confront the pressing issues of water security and provision. The two-day Water and Sanitation Indaba, running from 27 to 28 March 2025, had drawn together the finest minds, decision-makers and industry experts, all in pursuit of a singular goal – securing the future of South Africa’s most vital resource.

The theme, “Water Security and Provision”, resonated across the chambers as discussions unfolded with an undertone of urgency. Across the country, the realities of dwindling water supplies, aging infrastructure and a growing population have set the stage for a crisis that cannot be ignored. For Polokwane Municipality, the stakes are even higher. As a rapidly expanding economic hub, the demand for clean and accessible water has soared, making this Indaba a pivotal moment in the city’s trajectory.

With conviction in his voice, Cllr Makoro John Mpe addressed the media, his words carrying the weight of responsibility.

“This has been the most empowering and exciting gathering that brought together all stakeholders and role players that are the body of knowledge across the spectrum. We believe that this is a unique catering and very much effective,” he stated.

He emphasized the significance of collaboration in tackling water crisis, echoing the sentiments of the nation’s highest office.

“The president has also stated that for government, priority number one is water. We are very much happy as water authorities to be part of this and that it will fast-track our various models of financing water infrastructure programmes because government alone will not be able to achieve what it wants to achieve. It is only through partnership that we can achieve what we want to achieve.”

He said government resources alone are insufficient to address the crisis; alternative financing models and partnerships with private stakeholders will be key to ensuring sustainable water provision.

At this Indaba, agreements were drafted, commitments made and strategies set in motion. But the real test lies ahead. Will the resolutions of this gathering materialize into tangible change? Will Polokwane and other municipalities secure the lifeline of water for future generations?

Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – this was a defining moment, a battle cry in the fight for water security. And for Polokwane Municipality, the journey has only just begun.

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