A fellow, distinguished fellows, IWA (International Water Association) president, various presentations, and workshops as well as a Bronze Innovation Award: South African water professionals did us proud at the IWA World Water Congress in Toronto.

Thousands of leading water professionals and companies from around the world convened at the World Water Congress, seeking solutions to the world’s most pressing water challenges. Over 7000 thought-leaders, decision-makers, researchers and business leaders attended the conference, with a number of South Africans receiving recognition for their work within the water and sanitation sector.

Several South Africans gave platform presentations, poster sessions, participated in workshops and even chaired sessions. Such as, to mention only a few:

• Professor Faizal Bux (founding member: Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology at Durban University of Technology) is chair of the National Committee of IWA and is participating in the governing assembly where the two vice presidents of the IWA were elected.
• Mendy Shozi (project manager, BORDA South Africa) was part of the Emerging Leaders Water Forum Programme Committee.
• Jay Bhagwan was session chair for Advancements in Non Sewered Sanitation
• Ismail Banoo presented Quantitative and Qualitative Analysis of Public Knowledge Level Knowledge, Awareness, Attitudes, Behaviour and Perceptions of Domestic Water in the City of Durban, South Africa

Professor Hamanth Kasan is a Distinguished Fellow of the IWA and was formally inducted as the IWA President.

Jay Bhagwan (executive manager: Water Use and Waste Management, Water Research Commission) received an IWA Senior Fellow Award.

“I am honoured and privileged to be inaugurated into a very unique and special group at the International Water Association, as a Senior Fellow.”

Jo Burgess (head: Trial Reservoir Services, Isle Utilities) received an IWA Distinguished Fellow Award.

“From organising the first International Water Association UK YWP conference in 2002, to establishing the IWA / Water Institute of Southern Africa YWP ZA in 2009, through three jobs, to distinguished fellow admission. Life in the water sector is a life with terrific colleagues. I’m especially proud that I’m still wearing jeans at conferences.”

Bronze Award: Project Innovation

The Water Research Commission’s, South African Sanitation Technology Enterprise Programme (SASTEP) has brought global recognition to the country by winning the bronze Market-Changing Water Technology and Infrastructure Award

The award acknowledges SASTEP’s groundbreaking approach to alternative sanitation technologies, which has shown remarkable impact on the lives of countless people. The programme has been instrumental in developing and implementing sustainable sanitation solutions that are tailored to the specific needs of South African communities.

“Being recognized on the world stage is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team and partners,” said Jennifer Molwantwa, CEO of the WRC. “SASTEP is more than just a programme; it’s a catalyst for change, facilitating acceleration of technology and innovation development and adoption, driving sustainable development and economic growth in South Africa.”