SUMMARY OF FREE STATE WATER INDABA ON 07 DECEMBER 2009
The event was a success and well attended by about 300 delegates. Deputy Mayor
Mangaung Local Municipality Mr. Mxolisi Siyonzana welcomed everyone present and
assured them that our tap water is safe to drink as Mangaung Masselspoort
Treatment Plant received Blue/Green Drop certificate by Minister of Water and
Environmental Affairs in August 09.
Acting Director General, Ms. Nobu Ngele outlined the purpose of the day as thus,
to discuss service delivery action plan and to work towards solutions facing
Province on Water issues. To turn the tide against poverty and take the Province
in the right direction. To strengthen the role of local government as well as
assisting department to fulfill its mandate of giving access to clean water.
Support and make sure that municipalities deliver to the nation.
Free State Regional Head Mr. Tseliso Ntili gave overall water challenges in the
Province on status of water services, status of water institutions, status on
Regulation and status of Water Users Association.
Dr. Harrison Pienaar made presentation on Water for Growth and Development.
Minister’s Advisor Ms. Cornelia September delivered the Keynote address on
behalf of the Minister.
Free State Premier, Mr. Ace Magashule applauded the department for hosting the
Indaba and encouraged all government departments to work together. He also gave
his commitment to support the department in whatever form it might need. The
event received coverage from about 8 media houses including the SABC.
During the recess all the media houses were afforded the opportunity to
interview the relevant stakeholders which included the Premier as well as Free
State Regional Head, DDG Regions which wad facilitated by Mr. Sputnik Ratau.
There were four commissions namely: Water Sector Regulatory Environment
facilitated by Ms. S. Moshidi, Institutional Arrangement and oversight
facilitated by Mr. F. Moerat, Water Sector Collaboration & Operation Hlasela
facilitated by Ms. L. Ceba and Water Master Planning facilitated by Mr. T.
Motseki. Where the consolidation of action plan have to be sent to the Premier
and Minister’s office.
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