In a move aimed at addressing critical water security challenges, Premier Alan Winde convened the Western Cape Government’s Integrated Energy and Water Council on Friday, Cape {town} Etc reports.
The meeting, which brought together provincial Cabinet members, mayors, municipal managers, and other stakeholders, marked a concerted effort to bolster the resilience of the province’s energy and water systems.
With several municipalities in the Western Cape facing acute water shortages, the agenda was primarily focused on enhancing water security amid ongoing drought conditions.
Winde highlighted the urgency of the situation, urging the council to maintain momentum in strengthening governance and coordination measures across the province.
On 22 January 2026, the Western Cape Government’s Cabinet made a formal request for a provincial disaster declaration from the National Disaster Management Center (NDMC).
This preemptive measure, intended to enhance risk management, is anticipated to be approved, allowing access to emergency funding that would significantly bolster the provincial government’s disaster response capacity.
The council meeting also revisited the Western Cape Water Resilience Strategy, which was launched in October 2025. This comprehensive plan aims to address the province’s water security through a variety of targeted initiatives.
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Winde noted that the strategy is an ‘immediate and long-term plan,’ citing factors such as rapid population growth, climate change, and increased demand as critical issues affecting water resources.
- Water Conservation and Demand Management
- Water Augmentation
- Infrastructure Development
- Governance
As part of this strategy, municipalities are reportedly investing heavily in maintaining and upgrading water infrastructure, with an estimated R844 million earmarked for such developments over the next two years.
Furthermore, the Western Cape Government is committing over R2 billion to bolster bulk water infrastructure projects in the medium term, ensuring sustained water resilience for future generations.
‘Where municipalities require assistance, we must step in,’ emphasized Winde, reinforcing the necessity of collaborative efforts.
The provincial government, in partnership with national and local entities, will continue to monitor water resources and implement strategies aimed at enhancing climate resilience across the region.
In light of these challenges, all residents, businesses, and farmers in the Western Cape are called upon to intensify their water-saving efforts.
‘Ultimately, we must use water responsibly year-round, not only during times of crisis,’ Winde urged, as he encouraged the public to remain vigilant about local water restrictions and adhere to water-conservation guidelines.
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Picture: Gallo Images / Ziyaad Douglas
