The new Minister of Water and Sanitation Pemmy Majodina has big shoes to fill, and a tough road ahead.
After four years of tackling the issues of the water sector head on, Senzo Mchunu moves to the position of Minister of Police. This does come at a time when he was “showing strong signs of rectifying the years-long deterioration of South Africa’s water sector, which is fast becoming one of the biggest challenges facing the country” according to a government media statement.
The sector has seen well-documented and frequent challenges, the former minister Senzo Mchunu met these challenges through revitalising the Blue and Green Drop reports, the establishment of the National Water Resources Infrastructure Agency and Water Partnership Office, and key amendments to the National Water Act and Water Services Act Amendment Bills, as well launching new catchment management agencies.
Pemmy Majodina when she was Chief Whip
What the future holds
Pemmy Majodina has held many appointments from regional to national level, and her appointment as minister comes off her position as chief whip for the ANC.
She has the political experience, and many hope that she will continue to build upon what Senzo has done rather than overhaul the current momentum.
The blueprint has been laid out, and following in the footsteps of Senzo, Pemmy is expected to engage with communities and stakeholders in order to best realise the human right that is water.
While Senzo made huge strides it is important to remember that the sector still needs a lot of attention, and her decisions and actions will be closely watched by the sector and those outside of the sector. Notably AfriForum has made a public statement saying they wish to work closely with the new minster and offer their expertise when possible.
