More than 600 citizen scientists are testing South Africa’s water resources as dedicated environmental organisation and Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse initiative WaterCAN’s yearly Water Testing Week programme gets under way.

WaterCAN officially launched its second Water Testing Week on September 19 at the Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens, in Johannesburg, with the initiative running from September 17 to 24, including World Water Monitoring Day on September 18 and World Rivers Day on September 24.

“This week WaterCAN has distributed more than 1 100 water testing kits to over 600 individuals in all nine provinces,” said WaterCAN executive manager Ferrial Adam, pointing out that, comparatively, 80 volunteers from across the country participated in the water testing initiative last year.

The volunteers will play a pivotal role in monitoring and testing the quality of tap water, rivers, reservoirs and dams, a crucial first step in holding polluters accountable and combating water pollution.

“But it does not end there. We must share the results, rally more supporters and ignite a water movement. Our water is too vital to leave anyone on the sidelines,” he continued.

Water quality is a critical issue that affects the health and wellbeing of communities nationwide and through regular testing conducted by committed WaterCAN supporters, a comprehensive overview of the quality of South Africa’s water can be obtained.

“Only by understanding the full scope of the issue can we prevent the deterioration of our precious water resources and ensure their long-term sustainability.”

Water Testing Week also aims to empower citizens to become stewards of their local water sources, as, by engaging in this hands-on activity, participants gain a deeper understanding of their environment while contributing to the collective efforts to ensure clean and safe water for all.