Johannesburg Water is dedicated to exploring alternative models to maximise the provision of quality water and sanitation services in the City. The entity is prioritising initiatives aimed at enhancing resilience and fostering sustainable recovery. This includes exploring alternative infrastructure funding models, optimising resource allocation, and maximising revenue collection. Despite economic uncertainties, Johannesburg Water remains optimistic about the medium-term growth prospects, with a projected consumer price index (CPI) of 5.3% for the 2023/24 financial year. However, the entity recognises the need for prudent financial management, with payment levels budgeted at 77.5% for the same period. Nombuso Shabalala, the Spokesperson for Johannesburg Water, acknowledges the economic challenges faced by South Africa in recent years, including rising unemployment and escalating national debt. These factors have placed additional strain on Johannesburg Water, necessitating innovative approaches to service delivery amid limited funding and increasing demands in marginalised areas.
Nevertheless, Shabalala affirms the entity’s unwavering commitment to its mission, with strategic interventions planned for the 2023/24 financial year under the leadership of the Government of Local Unity.
Key initiatives include the implementation of a Job Creation Programme to bolster employment opportunities through the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) and support for small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs).
Johannesburg Water will continue its Informal Settlements Upgrade Programme to extend basic water and sanitation services to underserved communities.
The Infrastructure Investment Programme will prioritise renewal and refurbishment projects, focusing on preventative maintenance to enhance infrastructure resilience.
The entity is also dedicated to maintaining the quality and reliability of water services through the Water Services Programme, ensuring timely response to interruptions and bursts.
The programme aims to reduce leaks and address sewer blockages promptly.
Johannesburg Water plans to enhance its financial sustainability through the Revenue Enhancement Programme, targeting reductions in Non-Revenue Water and improvements in meter reading accuracy.
The Water Demand Management Programme will focus on optimising water consumption levels and assessing infrastructure to reduce dependency on external water sources.
Covering a vast geographical area, Johannesburg Water serves communities stretching from Orange Farm in the south to Midrand in the north, Roodepoort in the west, and Alexandra in the east.
Given the significant number of residents reliant on its services, Johannesburg Water reaffirms its commitment to achieving strategic goals and delivering quality services to all stakeholders in the upcoming financial year.
Written by Sascha-Lee Joseph