**South Africa**: The nation is facing severe water management challenges, transitioning from one crisis to another. Experts propose technological innovations as essential to mitigate the escalating issues, yet effective communication and personnel management remain vital in transforming these utilities within an ageing infrastructure framework.
South Africa is currently experiencing critical challenges in its water management systems, transitioning from one water crisis to another. Notably, Cape Town has faced severe water shortages, culminating in the infamous Day Zero between 2015 and 2020, when the city’s taps ran dry. Johannesburg, the country’s economic hub, is now grappling with frequent water outages. The situation there appears to echo Cape Town’s predicament, with the root causes differing.
While Cape Town’s water issues can primarily be attributed to a prolonged drought, Johannesburg’s difficulties stem from deteriorating water infrastructure. A report titled the Blue Drop Report has highlighted the severity of the situation, revealing that non-revenue water losses have escalated dramatically, from 37% to nearly 50%. Furthermore, over 330 wastewater sites are reported to be in critical condition, accompanied by rising instances of water contamination that now impact underground sources.
In the face of these alarming statistics, experts in the water utility sector have shared insights into potential solutions. Vinesan Govender, Engineering Manager at Xylem Africa, emphasised that the challenges facing South Africa’s water infrastructure are not unique to the country, stating, “These challenges are not unique… Our utilities are facing this growing demand while having to maintain very ageing infrastructure.” This sentiment highlights a broader trend across the continent and globally, where the demand for water resources increases while systems become increasingly outdated.
Innovations through technology are emerging as a vital part of the solution. Automation and enhanced data collection, which Govender refers to as decision intelligence, are pivotal in assisting utilities to respond swiftly to ongoing issues. The integration of advanced technologies such as sensors, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, and cloud computing is aiding in the efficient management of infrastructure. This technology revolution also encompasses smart equipment, such as advanced leak detection systems and intelligent pumps, allowing for effective exploitation of data that utilities are already gathering.
Silver Phiri, Head of Projects at Seapro Africa, shared his observations regarding the collection and utilisation of data within the sector. “Almost 60% of the data we collected was never utilised. We couldn’t analyse it because we didn’t have the tools. But now, guys on the ground are excited about the predictive maintenance tools coming out,” he remarked. This highlights a paradigm shift towards a more data-driven approach within water management practices.
The capabilities of technology extend beyond immediate solutions to facilitate sophisticated modelling, as highlighted by Reuben Marowa, Sales and Operations Manager at Xylem Southern Africa. He noted the importance of tools like digital twins, which replicate real-world conditions to assist in future planning and decision-making. “If I look at the situation that occurred in South Africa… with a digital twin you can assimilate probabilities, put in place certain scenarios and make plans ahead of a natural disaster actually occurring,” Marowa explained, underscoring the proactive measures technology enables utilities to take.
Furthermore, the integration of technology into water management processes also aligns with international goals such as the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 6, which advocates for clean water and sanitation for all. However, as Govender pointed out, the successful implementation of technology requires effective personnel and management strategies within water utilities. He stressed the necessity for leaders within these organisations to adapt their perspectives towards technology and its role in addressing complex water management challenges.
Phiri noted that the size and complexity of water utilities often result in communication barriers that hinder swift decision-making. He indicated that by breaking down these hierarchies and enhancing dialogue between frontline workers and decision-makers, utilities could improve their operations significantly. As Marowa observed, an increasing trend towards viewing water management as an interconnected supply chain can assist in addressing the myriad issues that arise throughout the entire lifecycle of water from source to consumption.
In summary, while technological advancements in data-informed decision intelligence are poised to revolutionise the water utility sector, the emphasis on human capital and effective communication remains crucial. Govender pointed out, “The quicker we accelerate this adoption of technology and upskill our human capital… the better the chance we have of getting ahead of this rate of decay that is happening on our infrastructure.” Thus, the future of South Africa’s water management system will hinge on the successful interplay between human expertise and technological progress.
Source: Noah Wire Services
