Provincial water crisis 'likely' to be declared a disaster

THE National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) is expected to declare the Western Cape's water security challenges a provincial disaster.

- BY VOICE REPORTER

Premier Alan Winde chaired a meeting of the Western Cape Government's Integrated Energy and Water Council on Friday, where he urged provincial Cabinet members, mayors, municipal managers, and other stakeholders to maintain momentum in making the province's energy and water systems resilient.

On 22 January 2026, the provincial Cabinet formally requested a disaster declaration from the NDMC. The request is a preventative and risk management measure aimed at strengthening governance and coordination measures.