“Capturing Water” is a documentary by Rehad Desai addressing South Africa’s water crisis amid climate change. It highlights the grassroots efforts to tackle water scarcity, particularly after the near disaster of “Day Zero” in Cape Town. Desai warns that by 2030, 250 million people across Africa could face severe water stress due to escalating temperatures.
In early 2018, residents of Cape Town and surrounding areas faced the looming threat of “Day Zero”, a pivotal moment when the municipal water supply risked depletion due to an extended drought. This alarming situation prompted a crucial awakening regarding water scarcity in South Africa’s Western Cape, as reservoirs reached historic lows.
Filmmaker Rehad Desai sheds light on this critical issue in his documentary “Capturing Water”, which is being showcased at the Joburg Film Festival. He underscores that the water crisis in Cape Town represents only a fraction of a more extensive challenge, as climate change exacerbates water scarcity across the continent, presenting a significant threat to the future.
Desai emphasizes the severity of the situation, stating, “We’ve got 250 million people facing water stress, mainly in urban areas, across the continent by 2030. The temperatures are just [increasing] exponentially. We’re a dry continent. It’s becoming drier because of climate change.” The documentary serves as a call to action, capturing the grassroots movements aiming to combat this pressing issue.
In conclusion, “Capturing Water” highlights the urgent need to address water scarcity in South Africa, particularly in the context of climate change. As the nation grapples with diminishing water resources, initiatives led by grassroots organizations are vital in fostering awareness and prompting action. The documentary acts as a poignant reminder of the challenges ahead and the collective effort required to safeguard this vital resource for future generations.
Original Source: www.imdb.com