Joburg residents could pay 66% more before even opening a tap

Johannesburg households may soon face a massive hike in water charges, with the city proposing a 65.6% increase to its monthly water demand management levy from July 2026. The fee charged regardless of how much water residents use could jump from just over R65 to nearly R108 a month as Joburg Water battles ageing infrastructure and ongoing supply problems. Phemelo speaks to WaterCan Executive Director Ferrial Adam about the proposed increase and what it means for struggling residents. Kayafm