Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za
3-minute read
30 April 2025 | 10:22 CAT

Mountains of litter against a bridge pylon on the Jukskei River, Alexandra township. (Photo: Angus Begg)

Streams and rivers across Johannesburg – commonly referred to as “sprays” – are in a critical state due to unchecked sewage spills and mounting plastic waste, with worrying health and environmental implications. Civil society groups, including Josie Riverwatch, are raising the alarm, calling for immediate action from both authorities and the public.

In an interview with Radio Islam International, Dr. Theresa Dirsuweit from the UNICEF Geography Department’s Community Outreach Project highlighted the severity of pollution affecting the city’s key water systems. “What we found were fairly high levels of E. coli and faecal coliforms,” she said, referencing citizen-led water testing using WaterCAN kits. “These results are alarming. If the straight [stream] itself is unsafe, people who rely on it for bathing or washing clothes are put at serious risk.”

The most affected streams include the Bumstein, Montgomery, and West Dean sprays – all feeding into the larger Jukskei and Limpopo River systems, eventually reaching Mozambique. These waters are not only used for recreation, but also hold religious and spiritual significance for many communities.

Plastic waste, particularly microplastics, is another major concern. “If our indigenous vegetation is not there, it interferes with the proper functioning of the water system,” said Dirsuweit. “And microplastics end up in our food chain – absorbed by fish and animals.”

Civil society has stepped up in response. From clean-ups in Parkhurst to school involvement and youth-led projects like Being a River, the grassroots movement is gaining traction. “There is a remarkable amount of activism,” Dirsuweit noted, adding that many sports clubs, environmental groups, and schools have joined the efforts.

But public participation remains key. “Report sewage leaks. Reduce your plastic use. And if you see plastics – pick them up,” urged Dirsuweit. With chronic pollution threatening vital water systems, a collective response is not only necessary but urgent.

Listen to the full interview on The Daily Round-Up with Annisa Essack and Dr. Theresa Dirsuweit here.