Calls to protect Cape Flats aquifer and Philippi farming area

Abstract

Groundwater & agriculture Maryke Malan Cape Town’s population is expanding and so also the need for food and fresh water. The Philippi farming area is key in meeting Cape Town’s demand for food, but its future is uncertain as urban development swallows more of this agricultural area. The Cape Flats aquifer, a natural water reservoir underneath the greater Cape Town region, supplies irrigation water to the Philippi farmers but could potentially also supply fresh water for domestic use in Cape Town. The protection of the Philippi farming area and the Cape Flats aquifer is thus extremely important and of great urgency. Earlier this year, a seminar arranged by the Philippi Horticultural Area for Food and Farming Campaign, the Environmental Monitoring Group and the Western Cape Water Caucus brought together community members, farmers, academics, government officials and non-governmental organisations to share their concerns and knowledge about the Cape flats aquifer and the Philippi farming area.

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