NW water supplier says plan set to grapple with shortages, failing infrastructure

JOHANNESBURG - As the North West continues grappling with water shortages and failing infrastructure, its supplier, Magalies Water, says it has a master plan.  

The announcement follows the recent Water and Sanitation Indaba, which set out a new mandate to tackle South Africa’s water challenges.  

Magalies Water, which recently expanded its mandate to cover the entire North West, said it is revising its bulk water and sanitation master plan to address growing demand and long-standing supply challenges.  

With large parts of North West grappling with severe water shortages, ageing infrastructure, and insufficient bulk supply systems, Magalies Water said it is moving to align its strategic plans with the government’s new directives.  

The utility’s updated master plan aims, for the first time, to map out water challenges across the entire province.  

Previously, its focus was limited, but the revised plan will now drive expansion into under-serviced communities.  

However, with limited resources and a growing population, North West remains one of South Africa’s most water-stressed provinces.  

Magalies Water said it is strengthening partnerships with municipalities to reduce water losses, improve compliance, and secure long-term infrastructure funding.