House Chairperson, the ACDP is very worried about how the Department of Water and Sanitation is spending money. There is too much underspending, too many irregular payments, and poor management of contracts. These problems are not new, and they continue to hurt service delivery.
The Department’s own Annual Report shows that R1.2 billion was spent irregularly in the 2024/25 financial year. Of that, R634 million is still being investigated. This is shocking, especially when people in Hammanskraal, eThekwini, and parts of the Eastern Cape still do not have clean water. Some areas have sewage leaks and dry taps. The cholera outbreak in Hammanskraal last year showed us what happens when government fails.
The ACDP believes that water is not just a product to sell. It is a basic human right, protected by our Constitution. We supported the National Water Resources Infrastructure Agency Amendment Bill because it can help improve oversight and financial control. But laws alone are not enough. We need honest leadership and open, fair processes when money is spent.
We are also concerned that the Department missed 40% of its targets in the last two quarters. This includes important work like rural sanitation and dam safety.
We should remember: every rand wasted is a litre of clean water denied. If left unaddressed, South Africa’s water crisis risks becoming a full-blown humanitarian disaster, with very bad political and social consequences.
The ACDP calls for urgent action. There must be consequences for poor performance and financial mismanagement. We also want a full investigation into high-risk projects and again, urge the Minister to ensure that board appointments reflect technical expertise and ethical leadership.
I thank you.
