Rand Water establishes innovation, research and development institute

As one of the few water utilities of its size that is not founded along a major river, lake or water source, Rand Water has a unique business model. It has therefore adopted an innovation-driven, risk-based strategy.

The Rand Water Institute (RWI) has been established to give effect to a hub that aims to develop and implement innovative solutions through research. “We are committed to partnering with global and local institutions to provide research and innovation information in pursuit of a sustainable water sector at both national and continental levels. RWI strives to be an innovation, research and development hub in integrated water resources management (IWRM) in Africa,” says Dr Fawcett Ngoatje, head, RWI.

Research outputs by RWI will improve water management. Therefore, Rand Water will utilise its water treatment and bulk water distribution experience that has been acquired over many years to provide a platform for innovation, research and development in pursuit of solutions to enhance IWRM. “There is a need to develop innovative and financially viable solutions through research, development and innovation to respond appropriately to the challenges that face the water sector. Several collaborative agreements have been signed with other research-based organisations, and institutions of higher learning. Unlike organisations that operate in highly competitive markets whereby the main focus is on research for product development and improved profit margins, our success will come from collaboration, so as to achieve the noble objective of sustainability in water services provision and water security,” states Ngoatje.

Skills development

“The challenges facing IWRM are not insurmountable. By partnering with other like-minded institutions, Rand

Dr Fawcett Ngoatje, head, Rand Water Institute

Sipho Mosai, CEO, Rand Water

Water will have to contribute to the much-needed skills development that is indispensable for effective sustainable management along the overall water value chain,” says Sipho Mosai, CEO, Rand Water.

Mosai envisions a local water sector that subscribes to high ethical and professional standards, promoting joint quality research for innovation and technological development.

The Water and Sanitation Summit highlighted the fact that the challenge of access to water by communities does not necessarily result from a lack of the resource, but rather the lack of a capable management cadre. This therefore requires a dedicated team of water professionals who will continue to work tirelessly in finding solutions to these challenges. To this end, the Rand Water Institute was born.