Romy Stander

About 

Romy Stander is the founding director of Water for the Future, a non-profit initiative that works in the Upper Jukskei catchment area. Recognizing the importance of water conservation, Water for the Future focuses its efforts on the Upper Jukskei catchment area by facilitating the cleanup of the Jukskei River, one of the largest in Johannesburg. Freshwater from underground springs is contaminated by untreated sewage from broken infrastructure, industrial waste, and rubbish. What should be an asset for the community has become a hazard and a health risk due to these issues.

Romy takes a comprehensive approach to river conservation, managing everything from fieldwork to administrative tasks like securing funding and planning future projects. There is growing public interest in the Jukskei River, and Romy aims to sustain this momentum and encourage continued community involvement.

Issues and Ideas

• The Jukskei River "daylights" (a technical term used for when a river first emerges from the ground) at the start of Makers Valley, near the Nando’s head office. This is a citizen-led organization that engages the community through river restoration and flood solutions, envisioning a transformed green corridor. Their efforts began with understanding the river’s dynamics, partnering with experts from around the country, as well as dedicated city officials specializing in engineering, hydraulics, aquatic ecology, soil, invasive plants, etc., to install flow meters and test water quality. Data monitoring of rainfall, humidity, and river currents informs interventions to enhance water quality.

• Additionally, they identify and remove invasive plants to preserve natural biodiversity, though ongoing monitoring poses challenges. One example of a successful pilot that supports sustainable urban drainage practices is the "Eco Seat," which helps mitigate risks of surface water flooding along stormwater routes. These seats, functioning as bioswales, divert stormwater from roadsides into designated areas, replenishing groundwater or irrigating nearby gardens. When not inundated, the seats serve as public shaded seating, fostering community engagement.

• Through the work of Water for the Future, Romy aims to help create safe, nature-based spaces in Johannesburg where people can enjoy quiet moments while nourishing their mental and physical well-being. What ideas do you have that could support Water for the Future in their work facilitating the cleanup of the Jukskei River? Learn more about the work that Water for the Future undertakes at waterforthefuture.co.za/

Find out more from Ella Guthrie in their video interview, available here.