A new board has been appointed for the newly reconfigured uMngeni-uThukela Water.
Mhlathuze Water was disestablished on June 30, with all its staff, assets and liabilities transferred to Umgeni Water, effective July 1, after which the processes to appoint a new board were embarked upon.
The newly appointed 12-member board, with a four-year term of office that starts on October 1, comprises individuals who collectively possess science, engineering, law, accounting and finance competencies.
Led by Advocate Vusi Khuzwayo as chairperson and Noluthando Mkhize as deputy chairperson, the bard comprises Senamile Masango, Khanyisani Shandu, Sylvia Mhlongo, Lavandran Gopaul, Hlengiwe Mvubu, Timothy Cornish, Diana Hoorzuk, Sipho Mtolo, Kwazikwenkosi Mshengu and Sibusiso Mkhize.
Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu, along with Deputy Minister Judith Tshabalala, met with the new board in KwaZulu-Natal on Friday to orientate them on what is expected of them in line with their mandate.
In addition to outlining the priorities of ensuring citizens have water and sanitation as a Constitutional right, the Minister further discussed the reforms underway by the Department of Water and Sanitation to ensure the sustainability of the water sector and the urgent need to ensure that the necessary support is given to ailing municipalities.
Mchunu, who further requested the board to prioritise the appointment of a CEO, as the entity has been without one for over two years, reiterated the department’s support to the board as they prepare to serve the residents of KwaZulu-Natal.