VOICED : 4 years after drought, water flows in Cape Town - but not for poor

Cape Town faced a severe drought, but water stocks are now near capacity. However, in Khayelitsha, water remains scarce, with residents relying on limited water points. Migration and informal settlements strain the city's resources, exacerbated by COVID-19. Professor Joe Barnes criticizes the lack of forward planning for population growth. South Africa's inequality, aging infrastructure, and climate change pose future water supply challenges, impacting the poor the most.

What was the state of Cape Town's water supply during the severe drought?

• The city had an excess of water.

• The dams were dry.

• The water stocks were at maximum capacity.

• The dams were overflowing.

How do residents of Khayelitsha cope with water shortages?

• They have private wells.

• They store water in large drums.

• They rely on bottled water.

• They use rainwater harvesting systems.

What is one of the main reasons for the growing population in Khayelitsha?

• Migration from the countryside.

• Government relocation programs.

• Natural population growth.

• Tourism development.

What has been lacking in the city's approach to handling the influx of people?

• Increased police presence.

• Adequate housing construction.

• More educational facilities.

• Forward planning for infrastructure.

What future challenges are expected to impact Cape Town's water supply?

• Decreased rainfall due to climate change.

• More frequent earthquakes.

• Increased industrial water usage.

• Rising sea levels.