We’ve spent years talking about South Africa’s electricity challenge. The question that must be asked, though, is who is leading the charge as water becomes the next big market?

Consider the scale. Government has committed more than R156 billion to water and sanitation infrastructure over three years in SONA 2026.

Whichever way you look at it, there is a lot to repair, replace and build. Somebody has to manufacture it.

The things the system needs

Pipes, pumps, tanks, valves, filtration, membranes, coatings, sensors and treatment systems are all part of a stronger water network. Less rainfall over typical rain periods leaves water supplies to major metros under sustained pressure.

Capability beyond the obvious supply chain

Companies such as SAFRIPOL, AECI Water and Mpact already show how polymers, chemicals and manufacturing capability connect with water-related markets.

The more interesting question is who sits just outside the obvious supply chain, whose capabilities could create an entry into this growth stream.

• Technical textiles

• Composites

• Minerals and precast products

• Specialist coatings

• Polymer processors

Some may already have the materials, machinery and know-how required without ever considering water a market.

Start with the problem

The opportunity starts by asking: what problems need solving, and who in South Africa already has the capability to solve them?