Western Cape Achieves 15 Blue Drop Certifications for Water Quality Excellence

In a commendable leap forward for the Western Cape, the National Department of Water and Sanitation's 2023 Blue Drop Report has recognized a significant number of municipalities and entities from the province for their outstanding water quality. Milestone achievements were marked as no fewer than 15 Blue Drop Certifications were awarded, a notable increase from the eight certifications in the prior 2014 report.

Anton Bredell, the Western Cape minister of local government, environmental affairs and development planning, has praised the remarkable improvement, attributing it to the diligent work of the respective entities in enhancing their water service delivery. These certifications serve as a seal of quality, signifying a water supply system's compliance with stringent safety and management criteria. They reflect a consistent commitment to ensuring safe, sustainable water services—a fundamental aspect of public health and well-being.

The enthusiasm surrounding this advancement cannot overshadow the challenges that persist. Eight water supply systems, including those managed by Beaufort West, Hessequa, Kannaland, and Prins Albert Municipalities, were flagged for critical issues. In response, the Department of Local Government is taking an active stance, pledging to delve into the problems encountered and deliver a range of support measures, from targeted training programs to expert technical assistance.

Water quality management is an ongoing critical service in the Western Cape, which administers 25 Water Service Authorities and oversees 124 water supply systems. These systems collectively treat in excess of 1 million kilolitres of water each day—a voluminous task with no margin for error. Recognition through Blue Drop Certification is not only an honor but an impetus to maintain and exceed the established standards.

This latest Blue Drop Report holds additional significance as it complements the Western Cape's extensive 15-Year Integrated Drought and Water Response Plan. The meticulously crafted plan is a strategic roadmap that thoroughly evaluates municipal water infrastructure, anticipates future water requirements, and prepares for scarcity situations. Together, these resources aim to facilitate effective water governance, system optimization, and resilience against droughts and other climate impacts.

As the province revels in this success, the commitment to quality water services is echoed across various departments and entities, each playing a critical role in the delivery of this life-essential resource. The broader public is encouraged to engage with these reports to better understand the efforts involved in water quality management and to value the diligence behind each drop consumed. The Blue Drop Report can be accessed through selected channels laid out by the Department of Water and Sanitation.