DWS

The Department of Water and Sanitation is a South African national government department responsible for water resource management, water services provision and sanitation infrastructure across the country. The department's mandate includes ensuring equitable and sustainable access to water and sanitation services, managing South Africa's water resources, regulating water quality and overseeing compliance with water legislation. It plays a central role in transboundary water management, representing South Africa in international watercourse commissions and agreements with neighbouring countries including Lesotho, Botswana, Mozambique and Zimbabwe. The department administers key legislation such as the National Water Act and the Water Services Act, and coordinates policy on issues ranging from drought management and water conservation to the control of aquatic invasive species. It also oversees infrastructure development for bulk water supply, wastewater treatment and sanitation, particularly in underserved rural and peri-urban areas. The department works closely with water boards, municipalities and catchment management agencies to deliver services and manage water resources at regional and local levels. Its responsibilities extend to monitoring water quality, licensing water use and ensuring the protection of aquatic ecosystems. The department was formed through the merger of the former Department of Water Affairs and the water and sanitation functions previously held by other government entities, reflecting the integrated approach required to address South Africa's water security challenges.