In order to close the gaps that exist within the water and sanitation sector, it is estimated that South Africa needs some R900 billion in the next ten years, just for infrastructure development. For the infrastructure to be effective and sustainable, it also requires an enabling environment – fully functional municipalities for example, constant flow of funds for both capital expenditure and asset management, including efficient operation and maintenance; this does not form part of the R900 billion. That is why involvement of all water and sanitation stakeholders is essential in the process to turn the sector / business around, provide n enabling environment and maximise funding availability and participation.

There is clearly a financial shortfall in the sector, so creative ways will have to be found to secure the resources required for the SDG 6 national implementation budget. The water sector needs to tap into various funding streams to address the gaps that exist towards the 2030 SDG goals. The SGDs are completely achievable with the right approach and mindset and there are many ways to make the SDGs process more cost-effective by ensuring cooperation of all stakeholders, exploiting the symbiotic aspects, minimising trade-offs and maximising impact with appropriate solutions that encourage sustainability, minimise operational costs, maximise employment and protect the environment.

The NW&SMP process for example is ongoing and will be enriched by further engagements and inputs. It is regarded as a blueprint that will guide the provision of water and sanitation services going forward.

While the NW&SMP is there to guide the country towards provision, funding for the sector is critical. There is a need to engage the financial sector and persuade funding towards the water sector. In the end, water security also speaks to ‘fit for use’, and this is impacted upon by water quality, especially resulting from waste water treatment works malfunction and other pollution activities”.