Deputy Minister David Mahlobo reaffirms government's commitment to water security at BBCBE Built Environment Indaba
The Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation, Mr David Mahlobo, has reaffirmed government's commitment to ensuring water security for all South Africans through innovative partnerships and transformative solutions. Deputy Minister Mahlobo spoke at the Black Business Council in the Built Environment (BBCBE) Built Environment Indaba, held on Friday, 11 April 2025, at Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand.
The Indaba, held under the theme "Built Environment Partnering with Our Government to Deliver Infrastructure Projects through Innovative Funding and Delivery Models," brought together over 1,200 delegates from across the public and private sectors to address critical infrastructure challenges.
In his keynote address focusing on "Funding of water infrastructure and use of technology for clean water and addressing ageing infrastructure," Deputy Minister Mahlobo emphasised the urgent need for collaborative action.
"Water is the lifeblood of our nation's development. By combining government's resources with the innovation and expertise of the private sector, particularly through organisations like BBCBE that champion transformation, we can overcome our water challenges and build a resilient future for all South Africans,” said Deputy Minister Mahlobo.
He further highlighted several key initiatives, including the establishment of the National Water Resource Infrastructure Agency (NWRIA) to facilitate private sector investment in major water projects without Treasury guarantees. Deputy Minister Mahlobo also pointed to progress on strategic infrastructure developments such as the Lesotho Highlands Water Project Phase 2 and the uMkhomazi Water Project, which are critical to addressing water scarcity in various regions.
The Deputy Minister urged the Built Environment sector to leverage its expertise and global networks to drive innovation, mentorship, and investment.
“Water challenges as experienced in most parts of the country require bold and collaborative solutions from all of us. Together, we can harness technology, finance, and partnerships to achieve Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6 on clean water and sanitation for all,” he stated.
The Department of Water and Sanitation remains steadfast in its mission to secure South Africa’s water future. Deputy Minister Mahlobo’s address underscored the need for unity across government, private sector, academia, and civil society to transform challenges into opportunities for sustainable growth.
The two-day Indaba built on the success of the 2024 inaugural event, focusing on practical solutions for infrastructure development while advancing BBCBE's transformation agenda across key sectors, including water, energy, transport, and the circular economy.
For more information, contact:
Wisane Mavasa
Spokesperson for the Department of Water and Sanitation
Cell: 060 561 8935
E-mail: mavasaw@dws.gov.za
