WaterCAN is a national initiative dedicated to safeguarding South Africa’s water resources through citizen-driven action, credible data, and accountable governance. We believe that water security cannot be left solely to the State — it must be a shared responsibility between authorities and the people they serve. By equipping citizens with the tools, knowledge, and platforms they need, we enable communities to protect their right to clean and safe water.
Our Core Pillars
WaterCAN empowers communities through citizen science, tools, and training to monitor water, drive accountability, catalyse public action, and foster collaboration across sectors for just, evidence-based, and sustainable water governance.
Empower communities – with a particular focus on women and youth- through a national citizen science network
Provide tools, menu of actions, training, and support for local water monitoring and evidence-based advocacy.
Drive accountability and influence policy
Use citizen-generated data and strategic research to expose failures, support public awareness, and demand reform.
Catalyse public action on water justice
Support campaigns, build grassroots capacity, and raise awareness of water rights and environmental risks.
Foster cross-sector collaboration
Work with civil society, academia, business and government to co-create just and sustainable solutions.
Our Mission
WaterCAN empowers individuals and communities across South Africa to support access to safe and reliable water services, using citizen science, advocacy, catalytic and collaborative action to ensure good governance, climate resilience, and the sustainability of our water resources.
Our Vision
A South Africa where the constitutional right of everyone to sufficient, safe water is realised — equitably accessible and distributed, upheld by accountable governance, and strengthened through active citizen involvement.
How We Work
WaterCAN delivers practical tools and coordinated actions to achieve real change:
- Accredited Testing Network: Partnering with laboratories nationwide to ensure consistent, credible water quality testing
National Water Guardians Network: Connecting existing and emerging water forums and champions into one coordinated movement - Rapid Response Protocols: Ensuring water quality failures in rivers and drinking systems trigger prompt, structured interventions
Our Team
We are the WaterCAN Team
WaterCAN’s dedicated team cannot do it alone. They are supported by passionate activists, scientists, and community leaders working together to safeguard South Africa’s water.
Dr Ferrial Adam
Champion of water justice, driving advocacy and accountability to safeguard South Africa’s water future.
Nomsa Daele
Leads citizen science education, empowering communities through training to monitor and protect water resources.
Jonathan Erasmus
Amplifies WaterCAN’s voice, shaping campaigns and messaging that hold authorities accountable for water security.
Sarika Lakraj
Oversees WaterCAN’s finances, ensuring transparency, accountability, and sustainability to support impactful water justice work.
