Cape Town CBD mobile toilets reach over one million users
Cape Town CBD public toilet project reaches one million users.
Image: Supplied
Users of a public toilet project in the Cape Town CBD have surpassed one million people since the initiative’s launch in 2022.
Supported by the City of Cape Town and facilitated by the Cape Town Central City Improvement District (CCID) the project is implemented operationally by its NGO partner Streetscapes, and provides clean, safe and accessible ablution facilities in the CBD.
“The project aimed to address a long‑standing shortage of public sanitation in the city centre,” said CCID CEO, Tasso Evangelinos.
“It has evolved into a reliable service that supports the daily functioning of a busy and diverse CBD, while also ensuing stable employment for community members who manage and service the toilets.”
In February 2026, eight mobile toilets – placed in Adderley, Longmarket, Canterbury and Barrack streets – recorded 1 005 604 visits, including 268 244 visits by homeless individuals.
An additional toilet has recently been added to the two in Barrack St near the CBD Department of Home Affairs bringing the total number of toilets to nine.
Streetscapes data shows usage continues to grow year on year, with a median monthly average of approximately 19 000 visits.
Reports indicate that usage is on track to deliver on 230 000 visits in 2026.
The toilets are open Monday to Sunday, from 7am until 11pm.
City of Cape Town councillor, Ian MacMahon, said the milestone underscores the importance of treating public sanitation as essential urban infrastructure.
“This project is vital for the CBD. Access to clean, safe ablution facilities is a basic need, but in a dense urban environment it also supports public health, urban management and the overall quality of our public spaces. When we invest in essential services, people use them, and it makes a real difference on the ground.”