Global water experts and industrialist have expressed concern about the rising water demand in Africa.

The experts are raising serious concerns about ageing water infrastructure, and delayed maintenance of vital water sources which deteriorates water quality.

This came out at the NatuRes regional learning exchange 2026 hosted East London, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa.

The exchange is aimed at strengthening partnerships and coordinating action toward water-secure and climate-resilient communities across Africa.

Stakeholders at the learning exchange say while water scarcity and quality affects mostly households, it also has a negative impact on key industries that form the backbone of the continent’s economy.

Stakeholders from SA, Ethiopia, Zambia and Tanzania were part of the exchange which deliberated on possible solutions to the global water challenge.

–SABC–