A unique new partnership between the Netherlands and eThekwini Water and Sanitation (EWS) was launched at the Durban Country Club on 14 November 2013 to find innovative solutions for present needs in the water and sanitation sector in South Africa.
Financially supported by the Dutch government, the Centre of Expertise (CoE) is a collaboration between EWS and a number of Dutch partners.
The emphasis is on trade and relationships and the model of the “centre of expertise” is a model of co-operation and investment.
Neil Macleod, head of EWS said, “The Centre of Expertise started at the Water Institute of Southern Africa conference in 2012. It aims to improve the South African water supply and sanitation sector by introducing Dutch knowledge and technology where it is needed.”
“The Netherlands has the best quality drinking water in the world and is internationally renowned for its knowledge and expertise in water technology, water purification and the installation of water pipe networks. We are thankful they are happy to share this knowledge and experience.”
The CoE has begun engaging with other South African metros and anticipates a broad campaign initiated throughout South Africa.
Following the Dutch government’s commitment in May of seed funding for three years, five pilot projects or showcases have already been completed.
These cover the testing of different trenchless technologies, a carbon footprint assessment, a comparative investigation into the use of different pipe materials, the development of a course to improve the operation and maintenance of treatment plants and the development of an asset management game for utilities.
The CoE team consists of a mix of representatives of Dutch and South African utilities as well as the international business environment.
Water treatment and supply specialist, Leo Meijer, is the General Manager based in Durban with EWS, along with Dhevan Govender, who is Senior Manager: Commercial and Business for EWS and is their dedicated Project Manager in the centre. Marketing and business development is undertaken by chemical engineer, Jeroen Bosboom, who is based in Johannesburg.
The CoE is a non-profit organisation with the long-term goal of becoming self-sustaining.
For more information visit www.coe.org.za.