City of Tshwane Seeks R2 Billion to Refurbish Polluted Apies River
In 2025, the City of Tshwane announced a need for R2 billion to refurbish the polluted Apies River. Department of Water and Sanitation Director General Sean Phillips indicated that R407 billion investment for South Africa's water infrastructure would only address the worst 105 municipalities, excluding major cities. The Rooiwal WWTW plant has been discharging untreated sewage into the river, which has been polluted since at least 2005. A 2021 study identified agricultural runoff and municipal wastewater as primary pollution sources, making the river unsafe for consumption but suitable for irrigation.

The City of Tshwane called for R2 billion in 2025 to refurbish the polluted Apies River. Sean Phillips from the Department of Water and Sanitation reported that R407 billion is needed for South Africa's water infrastructure, sufficient for only 105 municipalities, not including major cities.
The Rooiwal WWTW has contributed to untreated sewage discharges into the river. Pollution has been documented since 2005, leading to a disaster zone designation. A 2021 study highlighted that agricultural runoff and wastewater treatment plants are key pollution sources, rendering the river unsafe for human consumption but viable for irrigation.




Comments