World Health Day, celebrated on 7 April every year to mark the anniversary of the founding of the World Health Organization, provides us with a unique opportunity to mobilize action around a specific health topic of concern to people all over the world.

For South Africans top of mind is our most precious and most wasted resource – water. There are still great misconceptions about the availability of water as well as its value. This can largely be contributed to the fact that nearly 97% of the world’s surface is covered in water – salt water which is not instantly consumable. With only 1% fresh water which is consumable. This 1%, however, is supposed to service all 7.6 billion people – the current world population. This is fast becoming our planets most concerning plight.

South Africa
Although the Western Cape is in a more dire situation than Johannesburg, given all the rain we have gotten over the past few weeks, it is important to note that the City of Johannesburg is still implementing Level 1 water restrictions.

Councillor Nico de Jager, Mayoral Committee member of the City of Johannesburg, reminded residents that they are not to water their gardens between 6am and 6pm during the summer months (1 September to 31 March) and not to wash paved areas and driveways using hose pipes.

He also sternly stated that “If we are all able to save water, it may become possible to lift the water restrictions, but should [we] continue misusing water, Johannesburg will end up just like Cape Town, or worse.”

In order to assist this effort, Johannesburg Water has provided a few facile water saving tips:
– Adjust the water level of washing and dishwashing machines to suit the load.
– Install water-saving shower heads and flow restrictors.
– Take short showers. Don’t indulge in frequent long baths.
– Repair leaking/dripping taps.
– Turn the tap off when you are brushing your teeth.
– Install a drip system or micro-sprays in garden beds.
– Soak your gardens twice a week and water the roots, not the leaves.
– Use a trigger nozzle on your hose.
– Use a broom instead of a hose to clean your driveway and sidewalk.
– Wash your car on the lawn, using a bucket instead of the hose.
– Cover your pool to avoid evaporation on hot days and throughout the winter season.
– Plant indigenous plants that require less watering.

Residents are also urged to continue to report all burst pipes, leaking water meters, and open hydrants to:
011 375 5555 / 011 688 1699,
Send an SMS to 082 653 2143, or
Visit the website at www.johannesburgwater.co.za