7de Laan community benefits from high-tech sanitation initiative
Councillors Zahid Badroodien and Elton-Enrique Jansen view the specially designed cubicle for wheelchair users, which provides additional space and accessibility features.
Image: Supplied
Residents of 7de Laan informal settlement in Strandfontein are the latest beneficiaries of a high-tech, off-grid sanitation solution.
This pioneering initiative was made possible through a partnership between the City of Cape Town’s Water and Sanitation Directorate, the Water Research Commission (WRC), and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
The handover, the third of five pilot installations across the metro, introduces innovative, self-sustaining flush toilet systems aimed at providing safe, dignified, and environmentally-friendly sanitation, said the city’s mayoral committee member for water and sanitation, Zahid Badroodien.
From left are Elton-Enrique Janse, sub-council 17 chairperson and ward 43 councillor, Letsatsi Lesufi from Prana Aquonic Treatment System, with the city’s mayoral committee member for water and sanitation, Zahid Badroodien. Mr Lesufi explains to them how the system recycles wastewater into pathogen-free water for reuse in flushing.
Image: Supplied
The 7de Laan community, home to around 50 households just off Spine Road, previously relied on three chemical toilets, 17 container toilets, and 78 portable flush toilets (PFTs), said sub-council 17 chairperson and ward 43 councillor Elton-Enrique Jansen.
Dr Badroodien joined Mr Jansen, WRC representatives, Prana Aquonic Treatment System (ATS), and the Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation to officially hand over the facility.
Dr Badroodien said the project “provides residents with dignified sanitation, but its success depends on responsible use.”
Councillors Badroodien and Mr Jansen with the Water and Sanitation’s project team together with members of the 7de Laan community celebrate the launch of the high-tech sanitation pilot project.
Image: Supplied
The installation features two refurbished shipping containers, each with five flush toilet cubicles equipped with wash basins, sanitary bins, accessible options for people with disabilities, and a wheelchair ramp, he said.
The system operates entirely off-grid, powered by solar and wind energy, and includes a modular on-site treatment plant. Wastewater is treated through biological and electrochemical processes into pathogen-free water, which is recycled for flushing, removing the need for bulk sewer connections.
A trained local technical assistant and janitor will maintain the facility daily, supported by Prana during the first year. The project also included extensive community engagement and temporary employment for six local residents during construction, which began in March.
The final two pilot systems are under construction in OR Tambo informal settlement in Khayelitsha and the Rasta Camp in Ocean View, scheduled for completion in October.
The outcomes of these pilots will guide the City’s decision on expanding this innovative sanitation solution across more informal settlements, said Dr Badroodien.