Water availability will not be a problem during the World Cup and National Arts Festival period despite the possible influx of visitors to Grahamstown. This is according to Makana Municipality's Communications Officer Thandy Matebese, who says there is “more than enough supply”. Matebese is not concerned about the low levels of Waainek Dam because the water supply from James Kleynhans Dam via the Fish River is ample for the community.

From 10 June to 12 July, 5000 people a day are expected to visit the World Cup Public Viewing Area (PVA) at the Miki Yili stadium hosted by the Makana Municipality.

Jeff Budaza, Makana Local Organising Committee co-ordinator, says there will be no problem with water at the stadium. One 7 000 litre tanker will be in use and another one will be on standby. The local military base has also promised to bring a 30 000 litre tanker. Budaza adds that because it is winter, people will drink less.

National Arts Festival CEO Tony Lankester is not expecting a ‘massive increase’ on last year’s visitors, when 170 000 tickets were sold during the event. He also does not expect the World Cup to attract more visitors  to Grahamswtown the either, and does not envisage any water shortage problems during the festival.

Asked about the water problem during Scifest at the end of March this year, Matebese says only one out of three pumps was working, and that this caused a lack of pressure. This made it difficult to get water to the high-lying areas such as the Monument. He said that there are currently three working pumps and that a fourth will be added in the 2010/11 financial year. The municipality plans to have two pumps in operation and two on standby at all times.

Amid concerns about lack of water restrictions during a time of drought expressed by Makana Councillor Michael Whisson in Grocott’s Mail, Matebese says that the municipality is working on a project for water preservation. The campaign includes putting up signs in town to promote awareness about water-saving. Because of the tendering process, the signs are unlikely to go up before the World Cup, but Matebese says the practice of teaching people to use water wisely is ongoing.