SDG 6 at risk as committee warns of poor water infrastructure governance

By Lungile Ntimba 

The Portfolio Committee on Water and Sanitation in South Africa has expressed serious concerns about the country’s progress towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6), which focuses on water and sanitation for all by 2030.

The committee specifically cited weaknesses in water service authorities and the failure to maintain and operate infrastructure as major obstacles.

Chairperson of the committee, Leon Basson, said the country continued to face challenges due to weaknesses in water service authorities and the failure to maintain and operate water and sanitation infrastructure.

“The diagnosis has always been clear; what is needed is a focused programme of action to change course and improve the quality of water for South Africans,”  said Basson.

“While the National Water and Sanitation Indaba 2025 has made commendable resolutions, the inability of municipalities to correct course will render the recommendations futile.”

ommittee has raised serious concerns about the ongoing