Cape Town: Residents of the Rasta Camp informal settlement in Ocean View are among the latest beneficiaries of a high-tech, off-grid sanitation solution. The facility is designed to provide safe and sustainable sanitation in areas, especially where conventional infrastructure is challenging to install.
This pioneer initiative has come to development after partnership between the Water and Sanitation Directorate, the Water Research Commission (WRC) and the Gates Foundation of the City of Cape Town. The high-tech, off-the-grid toilet installation at Rasta Camp completes the rollout of all five pilot sites that were tested across Cape Town. This marked a significant milestone in the search for city’s alternative sanitation solutions for difficult-to-service areas.
Reportedly, the project is testing self-sustaining, full-flush sanitation systems in informal settlements. It will also provide residents with safe, reliable and environmentally friendly sanitation.
Rasta Camp informal settlement houses are situated along the mountain at the edge of the Ocean View community in the town. It was previously served by 42 portable flush toilets (PFTs). The construction work began between late 2025 and early 2026 which faced various challenges such as difficult mountainous terrain and a high-water table.
New installation of the project features three refurbished shipping containers, with each housing five full-flush toilets. Each toilet cubicle is fitted with a wash basin, sanitary bins and accessible options for people living with disabilities and including a wheelchair ramp also.
Such facility entirely operates off grid, which is powered by solar and wind energy. It includes a modular treatment plant that recycles wastewater into pathogen-free water for reuse in flushing. The system eliminates the need for conventional sewer connections by treating and reusing water on site. It particularly suits to areas with infrastructure constraints.
Notably, a trained local technical assistant and three janitors will be responsible for daily operations and cleanliness. The technology partner WEC provides technical support during the first year of operation.
Considering this, Member of the Mayoral Committee for Water and Sanitation – Councillor Zahid Badroodien stated that this is a momentous occasion for the City of Cape Town and the residents of Rasta Camp as new sanitation innovations. As it raises bar for informal settlement service delivery.
They now look to the community to use the facility responsibly, by ensuring that it is kept clean and in good condition. Remember to only flush the three Ps: pee, poo and paper. The success and longevity of this facility will depend on residents by taking ownership of the infrastructure and using it as intended.
Furthermore, with all five identified sites handed over, the City of Cape Town will begin a comprehensive evaluation of the pilot project, by assessing its technical, environmental, economic and social performance. This technology is a practical and cost-effective solution across Cape Town for broader implementation in informal settlements.