02/10/2025
Water in Crisis: Who Really Holds the Tap in South Africa?
South Africa is facing one of its toughest challenges: water security. From the Johannesburg water crisis to Cape Town’s lessons from Day Zero, communities across the country are struggling with scarcity, failing infrastructure, and urgent policy decisions. In this episode of The Water Hour Live, I’m joined by two of South Africa’s leading experts — Benoît Le Roy (CEO, South African Water Chamber) and Dr Anthony Turton (Founding Board Member, SAWC) — to unpack the latest water policy updates, explore public-private partnership priorities, and examine how digital water solutions are reshaping access, quality, and even future water trading.
If you want to understand what’s at stake for South Africa’s water future — and what solutions are possible — this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.
About the Show
The South African Water Chamber (SAWC) bridges the gap between the private sector and government. Its main objective is to promote dignified employment and inclusive economic growth by focusing on water distribution, reuse, and addressing water scarcity. Join us as we explore the critical role of water in shaping our society and economy. The Water Hour is your go-to source for insights and updates on water-related issues in South Africa.
Benoit Le Roy
Director of Operations: Nexus Water Alchemy
CEO: South African Water Chamber
With over 35 years of environmental engineering experience, Benoît has worked across various sectors, including government, mining, utilities, and industry. He plays a pivotal role in revitalising South Africa’s water sector through initiatives like the Public Private Growth Initiative (PPGI) and the establishment of the South African Water Chamber, aiming to foster water resilience and attract investment back into the country.
Dr. Anthony Turton
Professor Emeritus: Centre for Environmental Management, University of the Free State
Water Resource Management Specialist
Dr. Anthony Turton is a seasoned scientist specializing in water resource management, particularly at the intersection of scientific research and policy-making. With a robust publication record, he has contributed extensively to the understanding of water as a strategic issue in South Africa. His expertise encompasses strategic planning, transboundary water resource management, policy and institutional issues, conflict resolution, and political risk assessment for large infrastructural projects. Dr. Turton has been involved in various strategic engagements, pioneering the notion of water as a national security risk in an African context. He is currently based in Australia, continuing his work as a Professor Emeritus at the University of the Free State’s Centre for Environmental Management.
Bridgetti Lim Banda
Host: The Water Hour
Executive Livestream Producer, Podcast Host, Author
Bridgetti Lim Banda is a livestream producer, podcast host, and author helping people amplify their impact. As a Global Goodwill Ambassador and advocate for invisible disabilities, she’s gained international recognition for her work on South Africa’s water issues, including her reporting on the Cape Town Water Crisis.
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