THE state-owned entity responsible for providing bulk water and sanitation services in the Eastern Cape, Amatola Water, welcomed newly appointed board following their formal appointment in December 2025 by the Minister of Water and Sanitation, Pemmy Majodina.
Welcoming the new board, the minister underscored clear expectations around oversight, institutional stability, and alignment with national priorities for sustainable water and sanitation services.
Majodina emphasised the critical role the board will play in steering Amatola Water through the complexities of water service delivery, ensuring accountable leadership and effective governance. “Our commitment is to provide sound oversight and strategic direction that will translate into reliable, quality water services for communities across the province,” she stated.
The onboarding session was also attended by key stakeholders, notably the MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Zolile Williams, whose attendance underscored the importance of intergovernmental partnerships in addressing water challenges at provincial and local government levels. The event fostered open dialogue among the shareholder, executive authorities, and board members, establishing a strong foundation for collaborative, strategic leadership, according to the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS)
The newly constituted board brings together distinguished professionals with a wealth of experience across public administration, engineering, finance, legal advisory, and infrastructure delivery – all critical areas for advancing Amatola Water’s mandate.
At the helm is Dr Gaster Sharpley, chairperson, a seasoned public administration expert and former HOD , Human settlements, bringing strategic leadership and governance acumen. Supporting him as deputy chairperson is Litha Geza, a leader in organisational development, change management, and HR with extensive public sector experience.
The board also includes:
- Nomfundo Douw-Jack, expert in transformation leadership and corporate services
- Noxolo P. Abraham, governance and financial oversight specialist with deep legislative experience
- Simnikiwe J. Xawuka, civil engineer and water infrastructure authority
- Mxolisi Sibam, finance, risk management, and governance executive
- Thuthuka S. Songelwa,project and construction management professional with legal expertise
- Bhekuyise H. Makedama, municipal engineering and infrastructure strategist
- Nondumiso P. Ngonyama, legal counsel and risk advisory expert
- Trevor I. Balzer veteran water sector strategist and advisor
- Sinovuyo Ngumbela, quantity surveying and project management specialist
Together, this board embodies a robust mix of technical, governance, and strategic skills that will drive Amatola Water’s mission to deliver reliable and quality water and sanitation services to communities across the region, the DWS said.
