Government charts new course for private sector involvement in economic recovery

THE government is ramping up its initiatives aimed at economic recovery by creating unprecedented opportunities for private sector involvement.

- BANELE GININDZA

This was highlighted by Deputy Minister of Finance, David Masondo, and Minister for Transport Barbara Creecy during their addresses at the Rand Merchant Bank (RMB) Think Summit on Thursday.

Masondo shared insights on the new phases of Operation Vulindlela, stating that a significant stride towards reform is the establishment of the National Water Resources Infrastructure Agency (NWRIA).

This independent body will focus on designing, planning, financing, and managing bulk water infrastructure, having the capacity to leverage its balance sheet for robust financial backing in infrastructure projects.

The government's commitment to improving water services is further underscored by the introduction of a Water Partnerships Office.

This initiative aims to foster private sector participation in water infrastructure development, ensuring a plethora of projects centred on water re-use, desalination, and the management of non-revenue water are already in various stages of planning.

Masondo also emphasised the government's endeavour to enhance accountability and performance within water service provisioning.

The forthcoming Water Services Amendment Bill is set to delineate the roles of Water Service Authorities and Water Service Providers, thus enabling capable service providers to take charge at the local government level through different models, such as regional utilities.

Turning to the rail sector, plans are advancing towards the unbundling of Transnet into distinct entities for infrastructure and operational management.