Johannesburg Water Engages Media and Stakeholders on Approved 2026/27 Water Tariffs

by Malehlohonolo Mohomane | Jun 10, 2026 | Media Statements 2026

Media Statement

Date: 10 June 2026

Johannesburg Water Engages Media and Stakeholders on Approved 2026/27 Water Tariffs

Johannesburg Water participated in a media briefing session held at City Power Headquarters in Reuven, to provide media representatives and City stakeholders with an overview of the approved City of Johannesburg 2026/27 water tariffs, which will come into effect on 1 July 2026.

The session formed part of the City’s broader stakeholder engagement programme aimed at ensuring transparency and understanding of the approved tariff adjustments and the legislative framework that informs tariff-setting processes.

During the briefing, Mr Thokozani Tshabalala, Senior Manager: Finance at Johannesburg Water, guided media and stakeholders through the approved tariff structure, tariff bands, sanitation charges, demand management levies, and the key considerations that informed the tariff adjustments for the new financial year.

Mr Tshabalala explained that the approved tariffs are designed to support the sustainability of water and sanitation services, ensure cost recovery, and promote responsible water consumption across the City.

“The increase in low tariffs to conserve water is one of the key considerations provided by legislation, while ensuring that we continue to support and protect our vulnerable stakeholders. The tariff structure seeks to balance affordability, sustainability and the responsible use of our scarce water resources,” said Tshabalala.

The briefing further highlighted that the tariff model is developed in accordance with applicable legislation, municipal by-laws, and National Treasury guidelines, while taking into account the financial sustainability of essential services and the need to maintain and invest in critical water infrastructure.

Furthermore, Mr Tshabalala responded to questions regarding the Expanded Social Package (ESP) and the Water Demand Management Levy during the media briefing. Addressing the Water Demand Management Levy, he explained that Johannesburg Water cannot rely solely on revenue generated from high-consumption users to fund the maintenance and operation of its infrastructure. “This approach ensures the continued reliability of our infrastructure while promoting responsible water use and supporting equitable service delivery,” said Tshabalala.

Johannesburg Water also emphasised the importance of water conservation and demand management, noting that the tariff structure encourages responsible consumption while ensuring that basic water needs remain accessible to residents.

The approved tariffs include provisions for domestic, commercial and industrial customers, as well as sanitation services, with tariff bands structured to promote efficient water use.

Johannesburg Water remains committed to engaging stakeholders and ensuring customers are informed about tariff changes and the role they play in securing reliable and sustainable water services for the City of Johannesburg.

Ends

Issued by Johannesburg Water Communication and Marketing.