FLOWMETER JUNE 2021 - Umgeni Water
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FLOWMETER JUNE 2021
ORGANISATIONAL SUCCESSION PLANNING NATIONAL WATER BROWN BAG
DESIGN & ALIGNMENT – SUCCESS STORY FOR MONTH- WORLD LUNCH
OF MANAGEMENT & UMGENI WATER WATER DAY SESSIONS
EMPLOYEE CAPABILITIES
1
PROJECT
UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021
© Umgeni Water 2021
Improving Quality of Life and Enhancing Sustainable Economic Development. Think Water,
think Umgeni Water.
YOUTH MONTH
Umgeni Water salutes the youth of South Africa
for the strides they continuously make
in moving the country forward.
© Umgeni Water 2021
2 UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021
0. 0 CONTENT
PAGE
4 .0 THE UMGENI WATER MEDIA & STAKEHOLDER Additional information concerning all
aspects of the report and its contents can
ANNUAL REPORT PRESENTATION
be obtained from:
6 .0 APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTIVES
UMGENI WATER
PO Box 9, Pietermaritzburg,
8.0 TOASTMASTERS INTERNATIONAL 3200 or at the entity’s head office,
310 Burger Street, Pietermaritzburg, 3201
11.0 ORGANISATIONAL DESIGN & ALIGNMENT OF MANAGEMENT & Tel: +27 (33) 341 1111
EMPLOYEE CAPABILITIES PROJECT
Fax: +27 (33) 341 1084
13.0 BROWN BAG LUNCH SESSIONS
Email: info@umgeni.co.za
19 .0 SUCCESSION PLANNING – SUCCESS STORY FOR UMGENI WATER Website: www.umgeni.co.za
Facebook: www.facebook.com/umgeniwater
21.0 WISA ONLINE 2020 CONFERENCE
Twitter: @umgeniwater
22.0 NATIONAL WATER MONTH- WORLD WATER DAY “VALUING WATER” YouTube: UmgeniWater
Instagram: @UmgeniWater
3 UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021
CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S OFFICE
ANNUAL REPORT LAUNCH
THE UMGENI WATER MEDIA & STAKEHOLDER
1.0
ANNUAL REPORT PRESENTATION
O
n 25 March 2021, from 10h00 - 11h30. The second as well as representatives from
the Board and session was held in the afternoon, the banking sector like Standard
Executives led by which started at 15h30 and was Bank, just to name a few.
the Chairperson attended by various stakeholders, Umgeni Water Board members
of the board, Mr. including members from various and the Executives are proud to
Magasela Mzobe presented municipalities, banking sector, have delivered positive results,
the Umgeni Water 2019/2020 auditors and private companies. which is an indication of the
Annual Report Results at the On 15 and 16 May 2021, hard work that the employees of
Media and Stakeholders session further Virtual Presentations Umgeni Water have continuously
held at Moses Mabhida stadium were conducted for Asset showcased even as the
conference centre. Management companies ie organisation and country at large
The presentations were divided (Future Life, Growth, Investec), had to navigate unprecedented
into two sessions. The first session (insurance companies i.e. Old working environments as brought
being the media briefing held Mutual, Momentum and Sanlam) about by COVID-19.
4 UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021
5 UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021
CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S OFFICE
APPOINTMENT OF
2.0
EXECUTIVE OPERATIONS
Mr. Sandile Dube
Executive of Operations
H
e replaces former Management (NQF 6 Certificate) We have no doubt that Mr. Dube
Executive Mr. Msizi from Pretoria University, B. Tech will be able to steer the Operations
Cele. The Incumbent Degree – Urban Transport & Division to even greater heights
assumed the Planning Management (Civil Eng.) and as the Umgeni Water family
position of Executive and a National Diploma (Civil we would like to congratulate
Operations on 01 February Eng.) from Durban University of and welcome Sandile Dube. The
2021. Prior to joining Umgeni Technology (DUT). Board, Executives and Staff of
Water, Mr. Dube worked for MISA Umgeni Water would like to assure
(Municipal Infrastructure Support Mr. Dube has vast experience in Mr. Dube of the organisation’s full
Agency) and he brings with him all aspects of Civil Engineering. In support as he resumes his new
vast amount of experience to his his 20 years of experience, he has position.
new position at Umgeni Water. been directly involved in contract
supervision, design, maintenance, He is heading one of the biggest
Mr Dube holds a Masters contract administration and Divisions within Umgeni Water,
MSc (Civil Eng.), Project and management duties of water which is commonly referred to
Construction Management and sanitation in areas including as a “DIVISION AT WORK”. All
(Research report–Water rural and urban KwaZulu-Natal, the best Sandile, wishing you a
Conservation and Demand Gauteng, Limpopo, Northwest, wonderful stay with us.
Management) from Wits Eastern Cape, Free State and
University, Municipal Finance Mpumalanga provinces.
6 UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021
CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S OFFICE
3.0 APPOINTMENT
OF CHIEF AUDIT
EXECUTIVE
Ms. Nosipho Nontokozo Makhubu
Executive of Audit
M
s. Nosipho to strategic objectives. Planning Ms. Makhubu holds a Bachelor
Nontokozo and directing financial plans of Commerce Accounting from
Makhubu, has and financial management to the University of Zululand, Post
been appointed effectively manage budget and Graduate Diploma Accounting
as the Chief treasury office (Budget, Revenue, Sciences and a Post Graduate
Audit Executive, which is a new Expenditure, Assets and Supply Diploma Internal Auditing from
executive position at Umgeni Chain management). the University of South Africa.
Water. Ms. Makhubu is a She also studied Municipal
qualified Internal Auditor CIA She established and implemented Finance Programme from Local
(SA) and an Associate General financial management strategy; Government Sector Education &
Accountant AGA (SAICA). She revenue enhancement, reporting Training minimum competency
joined the executive team on 1 to all governance structures. She in terms of Circular 60.
February 2021. also managed the department
effectively and efficiently through As the Umgeni Water family the
Prior to joining Umgeni Water, Ms. advising the accounting officer Board, Executives and staff, we
Makhubu, was the Chief Financial on exercising of powers and would like to extend a warm
Officer at Okhahlamba Local duties assigned in terms of the welcome and to congratulate Ms.
Municipality. She was responsible act and ensuring compliance Makhubu on her appointment
for developing, implementing with relevant legislation as well and we assure her our support,
and managing strategic goals, as strategically engaging with the and we wish her a wonderful
policies and procedures linked external auditors. stay with us.
7 UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021
CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S OFFICE
T
he start of the pandemic growth. Like many changes that the 5 year anniversary of our
came with such a shock came with the pandemic, we Umgeni Water Toastmasters
and halted many of continued to hold our meetings clubs.
us from our paths in on Zoom and achieving many
both our personal and goals while braving through this The biggest milestone however, is
professional lives. new normalcy. seeing the growth and personal
development of our colleagues.
The world around us changed With the help of Nirasha Public speaking can be a
almost at the blink of an eye, Sampson as well as the dedicated daunting experience, but with
social media was flooded with and determined members and the guidance and mentoring that
fitness and cooking challenges mentors, we managed to keep Toastmasters provide, anything
and people seemed to do a lot our Toastmasters club alive and can be achievable.
of introspection and finally figure reached quite a few milestones.
out what is important to them. Below are testimonials from our
In the midst of all the chaos, From winning club of the month in colleagues who have benefitted
Toastmasters has been a great October 2020, to electing a new tremendously in their Toastmasters
escape for normalcy and personal committee as well as celebrating journey:
UMGENI WATER
PIETERMARITZBURG
EXCO 2020/2021
UMGENI WATER
DURBAN CLUB
EXCO 2020/2021
8 UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021
CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S OFFICE
MY TOASTMASTERS JOURNEY-
A PERSONAL REFLECTION:
My Toastmasters journey began in 2017 when I became a
member of the Umgeni Water Durban Toastmasters Club.
I
joined because I always as they were before. It definitely critical thinking, giving feedback,
admired how certain people does get better with time and time management, planning,
would speak without trembling practice. implementation, delegation,
or fear, and simply because I facilitation, mentoring, motivation,
hated the knot that would form What I found most interesting and team-building.
in my stomach and the lump in was that the club became more of
my throat whenever I would be a social group and a breakaway All these skills are necessary in
asked to speak in public, give space than a formal setting (as our working world and I found
a presentation or during an one would imagine). This was that the Toastmasters Club was
interview. mainly because the speeches that the best and most “fun” platform
members prepared were normally to learn them.
It is now 2021, and I do not regret from their own lived experiences, Side note though… Once you
the decision I made. Toastmasters interests and hobbies, which become a Toastmaster you will
provided me with a safe made it easier for us to know naturally find yourself counting
space to grow my confidence, each other better and at a “umms” and “ahhs” when people
communication and leadership personal level. This strengthened give presentations… Yes, It is
skills. The feedback helped me our overall working relationships inevitable.
work on my blind spots and as we started to understand
become a better speaker than I other parts of the Umgeni Water However, I would urge and
was before. I even have a couple business through social and encourage everyone reading
of speaking awards from local informal conversations. this reflection to sign up for
and international conference Toastmasters programme in a
presentations that I have done. Beyond just speaking, club nearest to you.
Yes, the lumps and knots are still Toastmasters also specifically
there but they are not as crippling targeted to improve our listening, Thandeka Jwara
9 UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021
CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S OFFICE
“The art of communication is the language of
leadership” (James Humes)
T
oastmasters International hence it is an on-going and who have leadership positions
is a non-profit educational inspiring journey. in other KZN Toastmasters clubs
organization that teaches and give of their personal time to
public speaking and Highlights have been having support and encourage our club.
leadership skills through a committed and supportive
a worldwide network of clubs. leadership team and being Communication is about engaging
surrounded by other Umgeni with one’s audience and how one
Joining the Umgeni Water Water colleagues who have achieves this through being aware
Toastmasters club has been one one’s best interests at heart. They of the audience, the use of vocal
of the most rewarding personal provide constructive feedback on variety, eye contact and gestures,
development interventions I have opportunities for improvement; to name a few.
undertaken. It has really assisted in this safe environment, one can
me in my professional capacity experiment and grow. I would really encourage
as well as in my personal life by colleagues to take advantage
improving my public speaking It has been such a privilege to of the opportunity to become a
skills, building self-confidence get to know other colleagues in member of Toastmasters as with
and self-awareness, together the organisation and observe effort and commitment it will
with improving my leadership how they are mastering so many change your life.
approach. There are over 300 different skills. We also receive
unique competencies to develop, guidance from external mentors, Ingrid Cawood
10 UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021CORPORATE SERVICES
5.0 ORGANISATIONAL DESIGN & ALIGNMENT
OF MANAGEMENT & EMPLOYEE
CAPABILITIES PROJECT
U
mgeni Water strives main purpose of this project is to to improve efficiency and
to be a best-in-class research, re-design and develop effectiveness.
employer and wants an organisational structure for • results in an alignment
to ensure that positive Umgeni Water in support of the of vision/mission, values,
changes are generated Growth Strategy and develop an operating principles, strategic
from within. In February 2021, the organisational design framework objectives, tactics, systems,
Human Resources department for Umgeni Water. structure, em ployees,
informed employees that the processes, culture and
organisation will be embarking on What is Organisational performance measures.
an organisational design project Design? • driven by business strategy
and has appointed Talentline Organisational Design is … and operating environment
Consulting Group (Pty) Ltd to and can be triggered by
conduct Organisational Design • the process of aligning the the need to improve service
and alignment of management structure of an organisation delivery or specific business
and employee capabilities. The with its objectives, in order processes, or as a result of a
new mandate.
Project
Objectives…
The project commenced
on 01 April 2021 and
is envisaged to be
completed by the end of
September 2021; it will
involve work conducted
internally with the Human
Resources department,
then cascaded down to
relevant employees for
participation and provision
of vital information. All
employees will be informed
of their respective role and
the time to avail yourselves
assistance required in order for employees to provide necessary
the project to be successful. when required. Umgeni Water assistance when required by
is sincerely interested in getting the consultants and the Human
We therefore inspire employees all employees to provide input Resources Department.
for a 100% participation and to improving the organisation
request that you please make and therefore encourages all
11 UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021HOW WILL IT BE DONE? THE PROJECT PROCESS:
Should you require more information about this project,
do not hesitate to contact him on extension 1302
(033 341 1302), or on email: mxolisi.ngcobo@umgeni.co.za
Contributed by
Mxolisi Ngcobo
12 UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021CORPORATE SERVICES
6. 0 BROWN BAG
LUNCH SESSIONS
#UWcares
#EmployerOfChoice
#BrownBagLunchSessions
#PeerEducation
Together
we can fight
covid-19
The easy way of sharing information at a workplace -
T
he easy way of sharing Brown Bag Lunch Sessions at employees gather to share
information at a Umgeni Water: knowledge on work and personal
workplace - The brown topics that impact on various
bag lunch sessions are Since the issue of knowledge elements that categorize a holistic
an informal opportunity sharing continuously remains at employee.
created for all Umgeni Water the centre of Umgeni Water’s
employees to be educated on initiatives, it is most important that Umgeni Water Young
various topics that could affect employees share their job-related Professionals’ (UWYP) and
them directly or indirectly. knowledge and experience Umgeni Water Peer Educators’
with each other, so that they Forum (UWPEF) recognized the
The word ‘Brown Bag’ originates will be able to perform in their necessity to introduce the Brown
from an old practice where jobs better. Employees have to Bag Lunch Sessions (BBLS) for
employees used to bring their know what is happening within knowledge and information
lunches packed in a brown paper and outside the organization, sharing within the organisation.
bag from home to an informal which is likely to lead to higher These sessions were introduced
learning session at work held organizational performance. and launched in the year 2020
during working or non-working Human Resources department when the government first
hours, hence the name “Brown held a workshop early in 2020 introduced COVID-19 lockdown.
Bag Lunch Sessions” (BBLS) were and one of the resolutions was
introduced. to create an environment where The pandemic caused a serious
shift on employees and the
13 UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021CORPORATE SERVICES
world including sudden changes Vaccination and Leadership - The hour, preferably during lunch
that the organisation adopted Female Perspective. hour, with a topic host for that
to ensure business continuity. week. Emphasis is on topics
It cannot be disputed that these In this initiative, UWYP and that have an effect on Umgeni
changes brought upon anxiety UWPEF have collaborated Water’s business operations and
and instabilities to employees. with internal stakeholders i.e. employee wellbeing.
It is for this reason that during departments within the Corporate
the launch of brown bag lunch Services division to roll out these All employees are encouraged to
sessions, the focus was on the sessions and will look at future send their comments and suggest
COVID-19 lockdown wellness collaborations with all departments themes or topics for the Brown
first and thereafter related topics. in other divisions who wish to Bag Lunch Sessions by sending
To date, the past BBLS have use this platform for information an email to bblsquestions@
managed to discuss topics like sharing and awareness. Virtual umgeni.co.za
Re-boarding of employees into online platforms like Teams and
the workplace, Cybersecurity, Zoom are used to host these Contributed by:
Financial Literacy, Virtual sessions. The aim is to host these The Brown Bag Lunch Sessions
Men’s Round Table, Covid-19 sessions once a week for one
14 UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021CORPORATE SERVICES
THROUGH THE WAVES
7.0
OF COVID-19 PANDEMIC
I
t has been over a year with Umgeni Water peer educators Umgeni Water’s response
the whole world navigating have not been silent, but have included distribution of masks and
through the COVID-19 continuously embarked on hand sanitizers, daily symptoms
pandemic. The virus was first awareness campaigns at Umgeni monitoring and daily screening at
discovered in Wuhan, China, Water sites in relation to HIV and all points of entry. Limiting staff on
in December 2019 and has since the COVID-19 pandemic. These site and to remote working have
spread worldwide. Signs and campaigns aim at providing become the new working order.
symptoms of the virus include employees with information on Initially staff compliment on sites/
but are not limited to; headache, preventative measures to take, offices was limited at 33% but has
fever, difficulty in breathing, how to care for someone and since been updated to 45%. Let
rapid heartbeat and sore throat. yourself should they or should us ensure that we adhere to all
These are mere flu symptoms one you contract the virus as well as COVID-19 protocols.
can say! information on the organization’s
response to the virus. Tabulated below are the topics
covered and what we can look
forward to in the coming months.
THESE ARE COMMON SYMPTOMS.
which may vary from person to person.
Only a doctor can give you a diagnosis.
15 UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021CORPORATE SERVICES
on sites/offices was limited at vaccine, but no cases of blood who choose not to, will not be
33% but has since been updated clots have been reported in discriminated against, but people
to 45%. Let us ensure that we South Africa (SA) for the same are encouraged to vaccinate.
adhere to all COVID-19 protocols. J&J vaccine administered under In conclusion, let us ensure that we
the Sisonke trial. take our medication, keep up with
Tabulated below are the topics Over 1 billion shots of vaccines have vaccinations, live and eat healthy,
covered and what we can look been administered worldwide. maintain social distancing, wash
forward to in the coming months. Umgeni Water has categorically our hands regularly with soap and
stated that all employees will be water, ensure that masks are worn
There has been a lot of uncertainty afforded the chance to vaccinate at all times and lastly take care of
about vaccines. The Johnson through medical aid schemes our mental and social well-being.
and Johnson’s (J&J) vaccine is and for staff not on medical aid, Should you require any assistance
currently being administered in Umgeni Water will cover costs, please contact Sister Xoliswa
the country under the Sisonke while contract staff will have to Makhaye or Miss Thandeka Jwara
trial. Six (6) cases have been cover their own costs. However, or any of the peer educators that
reported in the United States of as the State President indicated, you are comfortable talking to.
America (USA) where patients Umgeni Water is also of the same
experienced blood clots after stance that being vaccinated will Contributed By
taking the Johnson &Johnson not be compulsory and those Nomfundo Mhlambi
Together
we can fight
16
covid-19 UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021CORPORATE SERVICES
A GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE – YOUNG WATER
8.0
PROFESSIONAL IN ACTION
“Online Seminar between eThekwini Water and Sanitation,
Umgeni Water, YWP-ZA and Yokohama Waterworks Bureau, Japan”
P
rotecting and maintaining a thorough understanding of management, water bill collection,
water distribution systems variability and availability, taking customer management, and water
is crucial to ensuring high- an integrated approach to supply services. The participants
quality drinking water. development and management, as of this online seminar were the
Population growth, rising well as ensuring the participation eThekwini Water and Sanitation
per capita water consumption, of stakeholders at all stages department, Yokohama Waterworks
and increasing environmental of the project” (WSP, 2021). Bureau (Japan), the Young Water
protection efforts have increased Therefore, deducing that water Professionals of South Africa (YWP-
pressure on the world’s freshwater resource management is more ZA), and Umgeni Water Young
resources and have contributed than a hydrological science but has Professionals (UWYPs).
to the availability and distribution economic, social, and even political
responsibility of water. Distribution dimensions to be considered. The intention of the seminar was to
systems consist of pipes, pumps, create a knowledge-sharing platform
valves, storage tanks, reservoirs, On 9 March 2021 Young where the young professionals
meters, fittings, and other hydraulic Professionals took this discussion could actively share their water
appurtenances which carry to an online seminar through Zoom management challenges, success
drinking water from a centralized and Youtube platforms. This was factors, and proposals for some of
treatment plant to the consumers’ supported by JICA’s technical the issues faced by the water and
taps (National Research Council, ooperation in collaboration with the sanitation sector. Additionally, to
2007). Therefore, distribution is an Department of Water and Sanitation strengthen a partnership between
important part of the value chain (DWS), theSouth African Local the South African and Japanese
and requires adequate monitoring Government Association (SALGA) water sectors through knowledge
and management in order to and Yachiyo Engineering Co. Ltd, sharing among the young water
ensure sustained access to water Yokohama Water Company Co, professionals in both countries.
and customer relations. eThekwini Water and Sanitation
and Yokohama Waterworks Bureau The presentations kicked off by
There have been growing (YWB). The YWB are running the an Umgeni Water and eThekwini
conversations around the “Project for Strengthening the Water and Sanitation department
sustainable development of Training Capacity of IBTC on Non- representatives who gave an
freshwater resources and scholars Revenue Water” which has been overview of their respective
have inferred that “the key to implemented in South Africa. organizations; the water distribution
the sustainable development of The online seminar covered robust management strategy as well as
water resources lies in developing conversations on water distribution
17 UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021CORPORATE SERVICES
that they do not have such challenges as
most of their customers are billed and
there is “free water” as there are no areas
classified as “rural”. They alluded to their
effective system performance to be due
to the integration of technology for most
if not all their distribution and demand
management infrastructure.
This was a key highlight as KZN has an
aging infrastructure and has faced an
estimated 45% count of non-revenue
water in the 2018/19 financial year. The
session remains available on YouTube for
live streaming and more conversations of
similar nature are planned for the future.
Contributed By
Thandeka Jwara
Webinar content is available on: https://www.
their water supply services. The Second one was the key in rural areas where the service youtube.com/watch?v=hecAD3yFyX4
These presentations were to take away focusing on South level is such that they consume six
probe the panel discussions, Africa, particularly in Kwa-Zulu kilolitres of free basic water tend to National Research Council. (2007). Drinking
water distribution systems: Assessing and
done over TWO sessions. The Natal (KZN) where there are temper with infrastructure in order reducing risks. In Drinking Water Distribution
Yokohama WWB representatives challenges with non-revenue to gain full pressure supply whereas Systems: Assessing and Reducing Risks.
who conducted the first session water through illegal connections other consumers bypass meters https://doi.org/10.17226/11728
covered the overview of or unregistered customers. This in order to avoid billing; others
Yokohama WWB and its water was discussed as being more of reconnect illegally afterhaving been WSP. (2021). Water Supply. Water Supply.
https://www.wsp.com/en-ZA/services/water-
bill collection and customer a human behavioural factor. It is disconnected for non-payment. Japan
supply-and-distribution
management strategies. commonly noted that customers representatives, however, claimed
18 UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021CORPORATE SERVICES
SUCCESSION PLANNING -
9 .0
SUCCESS STORY FOR UMGENI WATER
S
uccession planning is a Umgeni Water Board approved the
promotion or unexpected events.
process through which Succession Planning Policy, which
This a strategy that is important to
Umgeni Water ensures focuses on executing a systematic
all employees, but especially with
that employees are and multi-dimensional workforce
leadership and top management
identified, recruited and positions. management. Umgeni Water, as it
developed to fill in key positions strives to be an employer of choice,
The succession planning is used supports career growth and the
within the organisation. This process
ensures that the organisation will to mitigate risk of losing the development of talent at all levels
never have an unfilled key position institutional memory by ensuring of the organization.
without a pool of properly trained that critical positions with leaders
employees from which to choose a who are about to retire are This optimizes organizational
suitable candidate. prioritised for selecting successors performance to ensure the
and that employment equity targets continuity and success of Umgeni
Succession planning makes sure are used in order to ensure equity Water operations and service
someone can take a role when the and transformation. delivery to communities.
position is available due to either
The policy enables gender diversity in leadership
positions. This is done by:
• Attracting talent to the organisation
• Graduate Development Programs
Ensuring Leadership is developed to meet existing
and Future challenges through:
• Management Development Program
• Leadership Development Programme
• Executive Development Programme
19 UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021CORPORATE SERVICES
This is a short account of how Umgeni Water’s succession plan
benefited Mr Themba Mthembu (Superintendent In-Training):
Before he could retire at the age of a message of an angel (may his that will assist the organisation
65, as Superintendent of Hazelmere beautiful soul rest in peace). He realise its potential in implementing
Waterworks, the late Jimmy sadly passed on without seeing the succession planning. Ulwandle
Lomax prepared his succession fruits of the tree he had planted. Operations’ senior management is
plan and discussed it with the Due to his passion for development acknowledged and applauded for
Human Resources department. of young professionals, Jimmy took supporting this success story.
He also engaged with Operations it upon himself to ensure that all Mr Themba Mthembu has been
management on several occasions policy and procedure requirements a Process Controller since 2017
seeking and encouraging their were met before he could interview until his promotion to the position
support and approval of his Themba Mthembu as the potential of Assistant Superintendent whilst
succession plan. Had we known candidate for the succession to the being groomed to take over as the
better we could have said he had a Superintendent position. This is a plant Superintendent and this is
premonition of his passing through landmark move of theory to practice
what he had to say: enlightening as I was expected to is what brought me where I am
“When Jimmy Lomax, my
strike a balance between following today.”
predecessor informed me in 2013 the training schedule whilst working
that the company is in the process of
shifts. There are instances where I thank you.
implementing succession planningI had to attend customer liaison
and that he had considered me asmeetings with my predecessor, I wish! R.I.P meant Return IF
his successor, I could not believe
while coming from night shift. It Possible. We will miss you Mr
it until I signed the mentoring all started to sink in, in 2015 when Lomax: R.I.P
agreement form. I agreed to enter
Jimmy was hospitalised and I had
into a mentoring relationship for
to act in his position for a month. Contributed by
a period of 1 year (01 November Since then, I never looked back. I Mxolisi Ngcobo & Themba
2013 to 31 October 2014) which kept on acting in the Superintendent Mthembu
was then extended upon mutual position until I was promoted. I am
agreement. privileged to have gone through
the succession plan; it makes things
“Embarking on the journey was much easier for me to execute my
not easy, but was educationally duties. Hard Work and Willingness
20 UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021CORPORATE SERVICES
10.0 UMGENI WATER WINS AT THE WISA
ONLINE 2020 CONFERENCE
Water Institute of Southern Africa (WISA) hosted its biennial 2020-conference themed
#AllHandsOnDeck in December 2020, where Umgeni Water (UW) was announced as the
winner of the 2020 WISA Young Water Professionals Company Recognition. The official
ceremony of handing over the award took place on 4 May 2021, which was hosted by WISA’s
Young Water Professionals (YWP-ZA) KZN committee. UW Acting Chief Executive and
Executives, WISA Board Chairman, UW Talent and Organisational Development Manager,
WISA KZN Chairperson, UW Young Professionals Committee and YWP-ZA KZN Committee
were among the esteemed attendees of the ceremony.
Contributed By
Sbu Khuboni
21 UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021CORPORATE SERVICES
11.0 NATIONAL WATER MONTH
-WORLD WATER DAY-
“VALUING WATER”
“Valuing Water” was the theme
for Water Month commemorated during March.
T
he Brand and Marketing (including causes and effects of to various schools and communities
Department conducted pollution on water sources) and through radio and television
and participated in servitude encroachment were advertisements, community and
various activations and shared through various platforms. school presentations, workshops
engagements with Activations were conducted in and activations at taxi ranks as well
schools, communities and staff. conjunction with representatives as door-to-door campaigns and
Information on wetlands and water from the Operations and Scientific clean-ups. Sanitizing units were
awareness as well as the impact of Services Divisions, Msinsi, sponsored to the twenty adopted
human activities on water quality government and municipal schools.
and quantity, waste management departments. The team reached out
• Water saving message (incorporating the Water Month Theme: Valuing Water) outside of Umgeni Water
Head Offices
Msinsi Staff at Hazelmere Dam Parameter Board
Umgeni Water is a proud to be Maritzburg United’s Hydration partner.
22 UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021BillBoards
Billboards with water awareness messages were installed in Durban,
Pietermaritzburg and Ladysmith.
Sanitizing units sponsored to adopted schools
23 UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021Career exhibition expo at Nzinga ECD Educators Workshop at Umzumbe
Community Environmental Awareness Workshops
Clean-ups
Taxi Rank Activations
24 UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021Awareness Talks at Schools
Mall Activations
Street Poles
Water conservation, invasives, greening and COVID-19 awareness messages
were posted on street poles on arterial roads leading to Head Office,
Pineside and Ladysmith offices.
25 UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021SCIENTIFIC SERVICES
12.0 NEW OZONE PLANT AT WIGGINS
WATERWORKS
U
mgeni Water (UW) system at Wiggins WW as a Why Ozone?
is a leader in ozone replacement for the old Ozone Ozone has numerous benefits in
water treatment plant. water treatment and is known for
spanning more than its oxidative qualities with a 50%
30 years in terms of What is Ozone? higher oxidizing strength than
implementation and research Ozone is a gas composed of chlorine. Due to deteriorating
projects. A new Ozone plant was three atoms of oxygen. Ozone has raw water quality, UW has to
required at Wiggins Water Works a pungent odour reminiscent to consider the use of advanced
(WW) as the previous Ozone that of chlorine, and is detectable technological solutions to ensure
plant equipment had aged, by many people at concentrations safe and sustainable potable
was inoperable and required of as little as 0.1 parts per million water quality emanating from its
replacement. (ppm). Any reactions with ozone waterworks. Wiggins WW uses
for the purpose of water treatment ozone as a pre-oxidant in the pre-
Umgeni Water through its need to be instantaneous before treatment process for the removal
innovation policy promotes the it can degrade back to oxygen. of iron, manganese, odour, as
utilisation of new technology well as taste and colour-causing
within its internal operations. The Ozone is generated onsite as it compounds (see Figure 1).
opportunity was used to install is unstable and degrades quickly.
a new energy efficient ozone
Figure 1: Schematic of ozone treatment efficacy in removing contaminants
26 UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021Algae and their extracellular pre-oxidant include enhancement Ozone Plant
organic matter can be the of coagulation, flocculation and The new Ozone plant comprises
precursors for disinfectant by- the decomposition of synthetic of three ozone generators that
product formation such as organics substances to mitigate can each produce 16 kilograms
Trihalomethanes (THMs). Ozone, the formation of THMs. Ozone of Ozone per hour. The estimated
when used as an oxidant, attacks can function as a disinfectant energy consumption for the new
algal cells causing internal but it does not provide a lasting Ozone plant is approximately 35
and external damage, which residual in the water distribution kWh per mega litre (ML) of water
kills algae. This improves the system and chlorine is therefore treated. The new Ozone plant and
physical removal of algal cells by preferred for use during associated equipment are housed
sedimentation and filtration. Other disinfection in the treatment of in a dedicated ozone room that
advantages of using ozone as a drinking water. has restricted access for safety
reasons.
Figures 2 and 3 below show the Ozone generator setup.
Figure 2: Ozone Generator Vessel Figure 3: Electrical and Control System for
containing Electrodes the Ozone Generator
Ozone is produced using the principle of corona discharge i.e. a high voltage is passed across a gas
stream containing oxygen. The energy of the high voltage splits the oxygen molecule (O2); into two oxygen
atoms (O) - which recombine with ordinary molecules of oxygen (O2) to form ozone (O3).
27 UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021SCIENTIFIC SERVICES
Project Status
The new Ozone plant was
successfully commissioned and lowered chemical usage and this treatment technology, which
was followed by a trial operation increased process efficiencies. will enable the waterworks to have
period. The purpose of the trial The plant will be closely multiple barriers in responding
operation was to ensure technical monitored over the next year to pollution and flooding events
performance and integrated during seasonal variations to that contribute to deteriorating
operation of the Ozone plant. develop the optimum operating catchment water quality.
The trial operation period was protocol for the system that will
also used to ensure that UW staff allow for optimised chemical and “Learning and innovation go
acquire the relevant operational energy consumption. The impact hand in hand. The arrogance of
and maintenance training and on the performance of other unit success is to think that what you
expertise for successful operation processes will also be monitored. did yesterday will be sufficient for
of the new Ozone plant. tomorrow.” - William Pollard
Successful implementation of
The numerous benefits associated the new Ozone plant at Wiggins
with using ozone hold great WW will also be an opportunity Contributed by:
prospects for Wiggins WW for other large waterworks at UW Process Services
operations concerning potential to consider the implementation of and Operations
28 UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021SCIENTIFIC SERVICES
13.0 WETSKILLS – SOUTH AFRICA CHALLENGE,
A WHOLESOME ONLINE EXPERIENCE
S
outh Africa hosted twenty-one (21) young students and Plan of Action discussion
the fifth Wetskills and professionals in the water • 2 days: Preparation for finals,
Water Challenge in sector received an invite to form with Feedback round with all
partnership with the part of the 2020 SA Challenge. participants, polishing posters
Department of Human Sbusiso Khuboni from Laboratory and Pitch practice sessions
Settlements, Water and Sanitation. Services department represented • 1-2 days: Finals: Wetskills
Delegates were welcomed by the Umgeni Water. Finals, awarding ceremony,
Dutch Embassy in South Africa. participation in water
This was a fourth edition themed During the two weeks, the conferences or meeting with
Water-Energy-Food; however programme consisted of blocks: delegations
was the first-ever online edition. • 1-2 days: Teambuilding • 0,5 day: Farewell lunch or
Wetskills is a two-week pressure- activities, with water-related dinner, check-out
cooker programme for students excursions, cultural visits
and young professionals with a • 1 day: Brain Hurricane, the The study cases are provided
passion for water. Participants kick-off with Meet & Greet and formulated by case owners,
come from all over the world, with case owners, speed-date companies and organisations
and work in transdisciplinary and with experts, brainstorming with a dedicated water challenge.
transcultural teams on challenging sessions Each team is allocated a case and
water cases. The main challenge • 6-7 days: Team Working days, contact details of the case owner.
is to find innovative and out- connection with case owners, The case owners are involved in
of-the-box solutions for water literature study, discussion, the elaboration of the case during
challenges in a changing world. teamwork, meeting experts, the Wetskills event, live and/or
Through selection from many optional: field trip and some through virtual platforms/phone/
applicants from South Africa free time e-mail.
(SA) and Netherlands (NL), • 1 day: Training & Mentoring, The first day was not like the
with Pitch & Poster training, usual physical attendance event,
29
participants during one of the sessions of Wet Skills SA 2021 Challenge
UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021participants met ‘online’ using everyone noticed the pile of work the cases. Work and deliverables Zoom platform. All participants that needs to be put in. For most piled up during the day; but the were excited and eager to of the days, it was serious business afternoon to evening social chills experience this different kind of packed with literature review, did help to unwind and be all- WetSkills SA challenge. However, brainstorming, engaging with case jolly with a glass of something and as soon as cases were introduced, owners and sharing of ideas all in video chatting on Zoom. the enthusiasm really dropped as the quest to finding solutions to Fast forward to 9 March, the day of the finals. Teams submitted their great innovative ideas and solutions via a two minute pitch, a poster and paper. The final day program consisted of a morning session dedicated to an International Workshop and Inter-gen- erational Dialogue for Southern Africa where presentations and participative engagement was the breakfast meal of the day. The afternoon session was dedicated to the Wetskills SA Challenge Finals and #WetSkills10 Jubilee Celebration. Dr Valerie Naidoo (WRC) was part of the jury team and she announced Team 2 as winners of Wetskills SA Water Challenge. Team 2 members excited as they were announced as winners of WetSkills SA 2021 Challenge Top Left to right: Gerben van Muiswinkel, Karabo Mokoena & Sbusiso Khuboni. Bottom left to right: Awodwa Magingi, Sebastiian Haverkate & Lindelwa Ndhlovu. Bottom: Wendy Dube For more information, blogs and images on Wetskills – South Africa Water Challenge check www.wetskills.com Contributed by Sbusiso Khuboni 30 UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021
SCIENTIFIC SERVICES
14 .0 YWP-ZA, BORDA & UWYPS BRING
VIRTUAL CAREER GUIDANCE TO
PIETERMARITZBURG SCHOOLS
T
he South African Young guidance and mentoring to Grade delivered to the schools on
Water Professionals 12 learners in Pietermaritzburg 22 February 2021 in order to
Empowerment Platform Township schools. adhere to COVID-19 protocols.
(YWP-ZA) a division Corporate gifts were distributed to
of Water Institute This initiative created a platform for participating learners. The schools
of Southern Africa (WISA), sharing career guidance, bursary played these recordings during
Bremen Overseas Research and employment opportunities Life Orientation lessons throughout
and Development Association in the water sector for the the month of February. Teachers
(BORDA) in collaboration with learners in various schools in were requested to note questions
Umgeni Water Young Professionals Pietermaritzburg., career guidance or comments from learners that
(UWYPs) brought virtual career videos were pre-recorded and needed to be addressed by the
Young Professionals team.
Images: (Top) YWPZA KZN’s Sbusiso Khuboni (Project Lead), Ntokozo Zwane (Finance Lead) and BORDA Finance
Manager Alvin Anderson posing with the Grade 12 learners from Ikusaselihle High, Nsikayethu Comprehensive
Secondary and KwaPata High during the video and incentives handover. (Bottom) Students receiving incentives and
Video career guidance projections.
On 19 March 2021, Young to extend the initiative to more please contact the YWP-ZA project
Professionals revisited the schools to schools in Pietermaritzburg and lead (Sibusiso Khuboni, sbusiso.
gather feedback from the teachers keep contact with these schools in khuboni@umgeni.co.za).
on behalf of the learners and the making a measurable impact.
general reception of this initiative. Contributed By
These collaborating teams, YWP- If there is a school that you would UW Young professionals
ZA, BORDA and UWYPs, plan like to refer for this initiative,
31 UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021SCIENTIFIC SERVICES
UMGENI WATER
14 .0
MARATHON
VIRTUAL
I
s an annual event that takes place the lives of participants, hence the sponsored our main prizes for the
during the month of March. Due introduction of UW Virtual Marathon five winners of the race.
to COVID-I9, Umgeni Water had 2021. The race was held on 13 and
to cancel its race last year at the 14 March 2021. All registrations The race comprised of distances
last minute to ensure the safety were done online. T-shirts were ranging from 5km,10km, 21.1km
of our participants. couriered to those participants and the 42km race which is a
that paid for this service. All Comrades Marathon qualifier. The
As months went by, Collegians participants were required to run organisers and Umgeni Water are
Harriers, who are the UW marathon the distance that they entered for pleased that the race was a great
logistics organizers, had to come and send their race results through success with an attendance of close
up with a strategy to ensure that the to the organisers. Our appreciation to 800 participants including 35
race takes place without risking goes to Msinsi Resorts who proudly Umgeni Water employees.
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FOLLOWING FIVE TOP WINNERS BELOW WINNERS
Pam Roestoff Njali Dlamini Sarah Bekker Mhlonipheni Zwane Anita Kaumpek
32 UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021CLASSIFIED
NEW APPOINTMENTS
Congratulations and a warm welcome to all staff that joined Umgeni Water between
December 2020 and May 2021. The Board, Executives and staff wish them well and hope
they will enjoy working with us.
33 UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021TERMINATIONS Farewell to all staff that left Umgeni Water between December 2020 and May2021. We wish them well in all their future endeavours. DEATHS Our sincere condolences to families and friends of all staff that passed on between December 2020 and May 2021. May their Souls Rest in Peace. 34 UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021
Tel: +27 (33) 341 1111 Facebook: www.facebook.com/umgeniwater
Fax: +27 (33) 341 1084 Twitter: @umgeniwater
© Umgeni Water 2021
Email: info@umgeni.co.za YouTube: UmgeniWater
Website: www.umgeni.co.za Instagram: @UmgeniWater
35 UMGENI WATER • AMANZI FLOWMETER JUNE 2021You can also read
