Cape Town has taken a major step toward long-term water security with Council granting in-principle approval to use a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model to procure two major new water projects: the Faure New Water Scheme and the Paarden Eiland Desalination Plant. Both projects form part of the City’s New Water Programme, which aims to diversify Cape Town’s water sources and add 300 million litres of new water per day to the system shortly after 2030.
The City’s plan focuses on large-scale water reuse, desalination, groundwater extraction and clearing invasive species to safeguard residents from future droughts. Separate feasibility studies recommended the PPP model as the most suitable approach for these technically complex projects. More than 100 public comments were received for each project during consultations, and these were incorporated into the final reports considered by Council.
A PPP allows the City to retain full ownership of the infrastructure and control over water services, while bringing in private sector capital, expertise and operational capacity. The private partner will design, build, finance and operate the facilities for a defined period—but will only be paid if they meet strict performance standards. The City emphasised that PPPs are not privatisation and that private companies will not control water tariffs or public water services.
According to Councillor Zahid Badroodien, Mayoral Committee Member for Water and Sanitation, the decision is a critical milestone toward a water-secure future. He said the projects will stimulate jobs and economic opportunities during construction and operations, while ensuring the delivery of safe drinking water remains firmly in public hands. Badroodien also encouraged residents to continue using water responsibly as drought risks persist.
The Faure New Water Scheme is expected to introduce between 70 and 100 million litres of purified, recycled wastewater per day, with first water anticipated in the 2030/31 financial year. Procurement will follow a two-stage process: a Request for Qualification in late 2026 and a Request for Proposal for shortlisted bidders in 2027.
The Paarden Eiland Desalination Plant will add a further 50 to 70 million litres per day through seawater desalination, also targeting first water in 2030/31.
City officials say these projects will boost resilience, reduce dependence on rainfall, and ensure Cape Town meets the needs of its growing population and economy. They describe the programme as essential for safeguarding communities from future water shocks—while creating work opportunities and reinforcing public confidence in long-term water planning.
