South African villagers map degradation of Kat River to daily life

Water researchers and community members from the Eastern Cape province of South Africa mapped the cultural and economic importance of the Kat River to identify how its decline affects local residents.

The river flows 152 kilometres through the region, providing water for 13 villages where up to 2,500 people live in each settlement. Residents use the water for drinking, cooking, livestock, and farming citrus and other crops.

The river also provides fish, reeds, wood, sand, and medicinal plants, while the banks serve as sites for swimming, religious activities, and spiritual practices. The researchers interviewed 54 farmers and non-farming households, along with members of the Kat River Catchment Forum, to document changes since the year 2000. Participants reported that pollution and infrastructure failures have caused a steady decline in water quality and availability.

Many residents stated that they currently drink untreated river water because their taps are dry or the communal infrastructure is broken. Villagers noted that fish have largely disappeared from the river over the last 5 to 15 years, and the erosion of river banks has moved the sand used for construction. The study found that the river's decline impacts more than just the environment.

Participants reported that the loss of reeds and medicinal plants harms traditional healing and craft production, while the degradation of the riverbanks limits access to cultural and recreational spaces. The researchers concluded that municipalities must repair wastewater and water-supply infrastructure to stop sewage from entering the river. They also called for better representation of small-scale farmers and local communities in water management decisions to ensure all users have a voice in protecting the river.