South Africa’s Wastewater Systems in Critical State, Report Reveals

In Johannesburg, South Africa, Nearly Half of the Local Water Systems Are Now in a Critical State, According to the 2025 Green Drop Report.

The report, released by Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina, indicates that the number of critical systems has increased to 396 from 334 in 2022. Only 66 water systems are currently performing at excellent or good standards, a significant drop from the previous 118.

The report underscores the need for municipal wastewater performance improvement, citing issues like poor maintenance, budgeting failures, and incompetent staff. Majodina urges municipalities and stakeholders to address these problems forthrightly.