# Africa's Water Crisis Threatens Just Energy Transition

> South Africa's water scarcity challenges fossil fuel investments ahead of COP31.
- Title: Africa's Water Crisis Threatens Just Energy Transition
- Summary: South Africa's water scarcity challenges fossil fuel investments ahead of COP31.
- Keywords: south africa, water scarcity, fossil fuel investments, cop31, just energy transition, climate change, community impact, water security, Allafrica
- Source: Allafrica — https://allafrica.com/stories/202611070229.html
- Published: 2026-11-07T16:51:25+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: south africa, water scarcity, fossil fuel investments, cop31, just energy transition, climate change, community impact, water security, news, world, politics
## Energy Transition Challenge
Africa weighs how to power industries and expand electricity access while ensuring water security.
## Water Scarcity in South Africa
South Africa faces unreliable water services, crumbling infrastructure and growing demand for water.
## Climate Impact Risks
A strong El Niño during 2026/2027 could bring below-average rainfall and lower river flows.
## Fossil Fuel Investments
Expanding fossil fuel infrastructure requires closer scrutiny of water demands and community impacts.
## Water as Critical Factor
Water links national energy choices to direct local effects on communities and ecosystems.
## Government Scrutiny Needed
Government must assess water impacts of proposed fossil fuel projects before approval.
## Community Water Access
Local communities should not face reduced water supply for fossil fuel expansion and industrial growth.
## Just Energy Transition
A just energy transition requires open water assessments that account for climate change and project impacts.
## Key takeaway

South Africa must assess water impacts of fossil fuel projects before approving new developments to ensure a just energy transition.