1 min read
w a

The recently restructured Umngeni-Uthukela Water Board has introduced its new members following the Cabinet’s approval on September 13, 2023. Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu, accompanied by Deputy Minister Judith Tshabalala, met with the 12 newly-appointed board members in Kwa-Zulu Natal to discuss their mandate. The board is composed of experts in Science, Engineering, Law, Accounting, and Finance, and is led by Advocate Vusi Khuzwayo as Chairperson and Ms. Noluthando Mkhize as Deputy Chairperson.

The process of reconfiguring water boards began under Mchunu’s guidance in accordance with Section 28 of the Water Services Act of 1997. Mhlathuze Water was disestablished on June 30, 2023, and all staff, assets, and liabilities were transferred to Umgeni Water on July 1, 2023. The appointment of a new board followed this transfer, with the board set to serve a four-year term starting on October 1, 2023.

Newsletter

Stay Informed • Cape Town

Get breaking news, events, and local stories delivered to your inbox daily. All the news that matters in under 5 minutes.

Join 10,000+ readers
No spam, unsubscribe anytime

The new board members include Ms. Senamile Masango, Mr. Khanyisani Shandu, Ms. Sylvia Mhlongo, Mr. Lavandran Gopaul, Ms. Hlengiwe Mvubu, Mr. Timothy Cornish, Ms. Diana Hoorzuk, Mr. Sipho Mtolo, Mr. Kwazikwenkosi Mshengu, and Mr. Sibusiso Mkhize.

Minister Mchunu Highlights Responsibilities and Priorities

During the meeting, Minister Mchunu highlighted the responsibilities that the Department of Water and Sanitation and its entities hold, as dictated by the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that people have access to basic water and sanitation rights. Mchunu stated, “The Constitution of the Republic enshrines water as a right, as well as a healthy environment through basic sanitation. Our collective mission is to reach areas where people lack access to water and sanitation as basic rights, and that is our top priority.”

Mchunu also touched upon the ongoing reforms within the Department aimed at ensuring the sustainability of the water sector. He underlined the pressing need to offer necessary assistance to struggling municipalities. In terms of organizational matters, Mchunu encouraged the Board to prioritize the appointment of a Chief Executive, given that the organization has been without one for over two years.

Ministry and Department Pledge Support to New Board

In his closing remarks, Minister Mchunu expressed unwavering support from both the Ministry and the Department to the Board as they gear up to serve the people of KwaZulu Natal.

For additional information, please contact Kamogelo Mogotsi, Spokesperson for the Ministry, at 076 523 0085, or Wisane Mavasa, Spokesperson for the Department of Water and Sanitation, at 060 561 8935 / mavasaw@dws.gov.za.

Previous Story

Empowering Sustainable Development through Science, Technology, and Innovation

Next Story

Harmonious Voices for Unity and Change: The Correctional Services Choral Music Eisteddfod National Championship in Gqeberha

Latest from Blog

Forging a Path to Enhanced Executive Oversight

South Africa is making big changes to keep a close eye on its top leaders! They made a new special committee in their parliament to watch the President. This committee will make sure the President and their office are doing things right and spending money wisely. They looked at how other countries do this to learn the best ways. This means more openness and trust, making sure everyone in power is held accountable to the people.

Cape Town’s Unmissable Weekend of Sporting Action

Cape Town is bursting with sports action from December 5th to 7th, 2025! You can cheer for the Proteas Women’s cricket team at Newlands against Ireland. Then, get ready for super exciting rugby sevens at DHL Stadium with the SVNS Cape Town tournament. And don’t miss Cape Town City FC playing football at Athlone Stadium. It’s a weekend full of thrills and fun for everyone!

South Africa Shines on the Global Cheese Stage

South African cheesemakers dazzled at the 2025 World Cheese Awards in Switzerland! They won many shiny medals, including two top Super Gold awards for Klein River Cheese’s Babylonstoren Parmesan and Dalewood Fromage’s Boland cheese. Nellie Fischer was even named the Best Female Cheesemaker. This big win makes South Africa super proud and shows their amazing cheese is now famous all over the world!

Renewing the Mozambique-South Africa Partnership: Highlights from the 4th Bi-National Commission

Mozambique and South Africa just held their 4th big meeting, the BiNational Commission, in Maputo. Their leaders, Presidents Ramaphosa and Chapo, met to make their countries even closer friends. They talked about important things like making their economies stronger, keeping everyone safe, and helping people thrive. This meeting helps them work together on many projects, from big gas plants to fighting sickness, making life better for everyone in both countries.

Deepening South Africa-Mozambique Ties: Progress and Prospects from the Fourth Bi-National Commission

South Africa and Mozambique are like old friends, working together to make things better. They talk a lot about how to help each other, especially with money, jobs, and safety. They remember their shared past of fighting for freedom, which makes their bond super strong. Now, they’re building roads, sharing power, and helping each other stay healthy and safe. This teamwork helps both countries grow and makes the whole neighborhood stronger.