Brümilda Swartbooi
The official launch of the Brixton Reservoir and Water Tower on Wednesday, 29 April 2026, marks a major milestone for water security in the City of Johannesburg. Executive Mayor of the City Cllr Dada Morero officially launched the reservoir alongside Minister for Water and Sanitation Pemmy Majodina at the Brixton Reservoir Complex located in Caroline Street in Brixton. The launch was attended by delegates, executives and Member of Mayoral Committees in the City of Johannesburg.
The Brixton Reservoir and Water Tower forms part of the Commando Water Supply System and will improve water supply and capacity to residents and businesses in the area. Beneficiaries include Rahima Moosa Mother and Child Hospital, Helen Joseph Hospital and the University of Johannesburg.
The project boasts a 26 megalitre ground reservoir, a 2 megalitre tower, a 200 litres per second pump station and bulk pipelines that reconfigure and optimise the entire supply system.
Cllr Morero said the launch is a major step forward in Johannesburg’s commitment to reliable and sustainable water services. “This project addresses long-standing water supply challenges in Brixton, Crosby, and Hursthill, and is the result of strategic planning, investment, and collaboration.
“The new system improves infrastructure reliability, capacity, and flexibility. Storage has increased from 20 to 46 megalitres in the reservoir, and from 1 to 3 megalitres in the tower. This development forms part of the City’s broader effort to strengthen water system fundamentals and meet future demand, despite financial constraints and competing priorities.
“Ongoing economic challenges have limited funding, but the City is implementing reforms to make Johannesburg Water self-sustaining, including alternative funding models,” Cllr Morero added.
Minister Majodina reaffirmed the government’s commitment to restoring reliable water supply. “More work lies ahead. Expanding storage capacity and restoring reliable supply in Johannesburg will take time, but we remain committed. We thank residents for their patience and resilience during prolonged disruptions.
“Together we must strengthen governance, improve operational efficiency, and promote responsible water use so that every household can open a tap and have water flow with confidence,” said Minister Majodina.
SUPPLIED.
