Cape Town mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis has shot down reports that the city’s coastline is filled with sewage after he posted a video plunging into the ocean.
This comes after kite surfer Michelle Sky Hayward went viral in a TikTok video of her swimming in foamy seawater.
The video has garnered international headlines, appearing in publications such as The Daily Mail, The Mirror, and India Today.
CAPE TOWN MAYOR PLUNGES INTO FOAMY OCEAN
On Monday, 17 November, Michelle Sky Hayward posted a video on her social media platforms of her trip to the beach alongside Cape Town mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis.
Despite rumours of leaked sewage, the duo were on a mission to prove that the coastline’s seawater was clean and free of pollutants.
Of her viral video, the kite surfer said: “It wasn’t really sewage. Cape Town water is lovely and safe to swim in”.
In the video, the pair blew bubbles in the sea foam, which covered part of the sand and water. They also frolicked in the waves, despite the howling winds.
Mayor Geordin emphasised that the city was transparent about publishing water quality tests on its website.
He added: “We want the public to love and enjoy our coastline. It is part of what makes Cape Town the best place to live in the world”.
@michelleskyhayward Cape Town’s ocean is clean, clear and so good to swim in! 🌊💙 Mayor @Geordin Hill-Lewis and I braved a windy day to show just how amazing the water really is. Come enjoy the beaches — and if you’re ready to brave the cold, the waves are waiting! ❄️☀️🏖️ #CapeTown #CityOfCapeTown #CapeTownBeaches #SwimCapeTown #CapeTownSummer ♬ original sound – Michelle Sky 🇿🇦👨👩👧
SEA FOAM NOT SEWAGE
After Michelle Sky Hayward’s video went viral, the City of Cape Town disputed claims that the water in Blouberg – as appeared in the clip – was sewage.
Images via TiTok: @michelleskyhayward
In a video posted on its social media platform, marine scientist Dr Barry Clark claimed that foam, coupled with murky waters, was a result of waves striking kelp, which was broken down into particles mixed with other pollutants.
The city emphasised: “Seam foam is a 100% natural phenomenon. It is a part of oceanic processes such as strong wave action from sea storms along Cape Town’s exposed coastline.”
CORRECTING FAKE NEWS ABOUT SEA FOAM
Claims that the sea foam at Blaauwberg beach and surrounds in Cape Town is a result of sewage or pollution, is INCORRECT. The water quality samples taken at Big Bay, Small Bay and Table View over the past 12 months showed EXCELLENT results according to the Hazen percentile health risk categorisation. FACT: Sea foam is a 100% natural phenomenon, and part of oceanic processes such as strong wave action from sea storms along Cape Town’s exposed coastline. Watch this video to learn more.
Posted by City of Cape Town on Thursday 24 July 2025
