(MENAFN) A recent investigation by a South African environmental group revealed that 43% of schools involved in a water quality testing project detected harmful bacteria in their water samples. These findings were made public on Wednesday.

Access to safe drinking water remains a significant challenge in South Africa, especially in rural areas, where only 36.7% of people have reliable access, compared to 71.8% in urban regions, according to 2024 statistics. Additionally, the nation’s water infrastructure is under pressure, with nearly 29% of water supply systems classified as being in critical condition, based on the 2023 Blue Drop report.

The Water Community Action Network (WaterCAN), launched in March, engaged teachers and students from 95 schools across eight provinces. Using citizen science kits developed by iLAB, participants tested water sources in their local communities.

Out of 54 schools that submitted data, 23 reported contaminated water. Tank water samples were the most problematic, with 73% testing positive for bacteria such as coliforms and Escherichia coli. River water followed at 66%, while 23% of tap water samples also failed to meet safety standards.

WaterCAN’s executive director, Dr. Ferrial Adam, emphasized the broader impact of the problem, stating, “This isn’t just a water issue. Children can’t learn if they’re sick, unsafe, or without access to something as basic as clean water.”

The Department of Basic Education acknowledged the report’s findings, with spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga stressing the urgent need to address the issues to ensure learners have access to clean and safe water.

While infrastructure improvements continue, millions across Africa still lack safe drinking water. A 2023 Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) report found that around 70% of people in African countries have access to basic water services. However, access remains extremely low in countries such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo (19%), Ethiopia (12.6%), the Central African Republic (6.2%), and Chad (5.6%). The Republic of the Congo fares better, with 46% access.

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