Johannesburg – Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi joined senior government leaders on Wednesday morning to officially open the newly completed Brixton Reservoir and Water Tower Project, a major infrastructure development aimed at strengthening water supply in the city.
The launch was attended by Johannesburg Mayor Dada Morero, Deputy Mayor Loyiso Masuku, Minister of Water and Sanitation Pemmy Majodina, and Deputy Minister David Mahlobo.
The project forms part of the broader Commando Water Supply System and is expected to significantly improve water storage capacity, supply stability, and service reliability for thousands of residents, businesses, and key institutions across Johannesburg.
Key components of the development include a 26-megalitre ground reservoir, a 2-megalitre elevated water tower, a pump station capable of delivering 200 litres per second, and supporting pipeline infrastructure.
Speaking at the launch, Majodina described the project as a milestone in ensuring equitable access to water.
“We gather here not merely to unveil infrastructure, but to affirm our commitment to dignity, resilience and the fundamental right of every citizen to reliable access to water,” she said.
She emphasised that the Brixton project is part of a wider strategy to strengthen Johannesburg’s water network, adding that it would enhance supply stability and service reliability.
“Today’s achievement must be understood that the reservoir and water tower is not an isolated development, it is part of a broader coordinated effort to strengthen the water supply in Johannesburg. It will significantly enhance water storage, improve supply stability and ensure greater service reliability for thousand residents and key institutions,” Majodina added.
She also called on Johannesburg Water to improve communication with residents, particularly around planned maintenance.
“Let residents be informed in advance,” she urged.
Meanwhile, Morero outlined the city’s broader infrastructure ambitions, revealing plans to raise approximately R13 billion to fund critical upgrades to water and sanitation systems.
“We need about R7 billion for water pipelines and R6 billion for sewer infrastructure,” Morero said, adding that the city has adopted a 10-year infrastructure plan developed by Johannesburg Water.
He noted that refurbishment work is already underway on 22 reservoirs across the city, including facilities in Soweto and Midrand, as part of efforts to modernise ageing infrastructure and meet the demands of a growing population.
In conclusion, Majodina emphasised “Water is life, and water security is non-negotiable.”
