As Rand Water celebrates 120 years of existence, Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu has commended the entity’s hard work, dedication and ability to effect directives when called upon.
Mchunu said this year has particularly been one of accomplishment for Rand Water, noting that Fitch Ratings have reaffirmed Rand Water’s 'AA+' positive outlook rating.
Mchunu said the rating alludes to Rand Water’s solid financial profile and strong shareholder links, which has enabled the entity to increase its capex for the large projects it has been carrying out.
The Minister highlighted some of the entity’s accomplishments, which include an unqualified audit opinion obtained from the Auditor-General, and the completion and commissioning of valuable projects such as the Vlakfontein Reservoir and Pumpstation 5A, amongst others.
“The entity’s success is attributed to the skill, dedication and vision held by those at the helm of the organisation. These accomplishments evidence the team’s commitment to service excellence but most importantly, the honouring of constitutionally entrenched rights for the benefit of the citizens of this country.
“Overall, as a shareholder, I must commend Rand Water for their consistent performance – be it in relation to the provision of quality bulk potable water, maintenance of infrastructure or its role as an Implementing Agent in assigned projects. As a ministry and a department, we take pride in having Rand Water as part of our portfolio,” Mchunu said.
During the annual general meeting attended by Mchunu on Tuesday, Rand Water Chief Executive, Sipho Mosai, gave an overview of the entity’s activities and accomplishments, as well as its operational performance update.
Rand Water Chief Financial Officer, Matshidiso Nyembe, also informed the meeting of the entity’s financial performance.
SANCOLD annual conference
Meanwhile, Mchunu will today deliver a keynote address at the opening of the South African National Committee on Large Dams (SANCOLD) Annual Conference, currently underway in Sandton.
Held under the theme: “Dams - A critical resource in present time”, the three-day conference is expected to bring together experts and technocrats from various organisations across the country to devise ways to inform future policy positions in the water sector.
The conference is set to discuss and share knowledge on various topics, including modern technologies and methods in the design and construction of new dams, dam rehabilitation, emergency management and public safety, decommissioning of dams, dams for water retention or flood control, dam safety and risk management, amongst others. – SAnews.gov.zatwi
