World Water Day

World Water Day History

World Water Day aims to highlight the importance of fresh and clean water. Its purpose is to advocate for the sustainable management of freshwater resources. Key aspects of the observance focus on educating people about water-related issues, inspiring action toward water conservation and improving people's access to safe water and sanitisation.

Established by the United Nations in 1992, World Water Day has a direct relevance to the South African community, given its history of water scarcity. The country's geographical location and climate have made water supply a critical concern. Furthermore, consistent development has put enormous stress on water resources. South Africa has shown support for World Water Day, acknowledging the need for conservation, better management of water resources and education around water cleanliness and hygiene, all of these in line with the global objectives of this observance.

In South Africa, World Water Day is marked by various activities designed to emphasize awareness and action. Events include educational workshops and seminars, art and essay contests for children, and communal water preservation efforts. They also take on projects improving access to clean water in underprivileged communities. South Africa observes World Water Day on the same day as the rest of the world, which is on the 22nd of March every year.

Facts about World Water Day

• The theme for World Water Day in 2024 was Water For Peace. The theme in 2023 was Accelerating Change.
• According to the WHO, as of 2022, 2.2 billion people around the world have limited access to safe drinking water.
• Cape Town, one of South Africa's most populous cities, faced a severe drought in 2017-2018, leading to the infamous 'Day Zero' when the city almost ran out of municipal water. This sparked an urgent need for water conservation and more effective water management strategies.
• The National Water Act of 1998 is the primary law governing water resources in South Africa. This Act was enacted to ensure that the nation’s water resources are protected, conserved, managed, and controlled in a sustainable and equitable manner.

In the News and Trending in South Africa for World Water Day

Top things to do in South Africa for World Water Day

• Don't waste water!!! Make a conscious effort to use less water on World Water Day and on other days. Some ways to reduce water consumption include, showers instead of baths, washing full loads of clothing only and turning off the tap while washing dishes and brushing teeth.
• Volunteer to help clean up trash and other debris along a beach or shore. This garbage and debris pollutes the water that we need in our daily lives.
• Visit Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens: Located in Cape Town, World Water Day is a great time to learn about the indigenous plant species which are adapted to the country’s different water ecosystems.
• Read a book to learn more about Water in South Africa:
  Troubled Waters: Governing the Water for Africa's Cities - by Maria Rusca and Lucy Rodina
  Water Resources in South Africa- by Bruce A. Lankford