New Water And Sanitation Head

The eThekwini Municipality has appointed Siyanda Mwelase as the Director of the Water and Sanitation Directorate, with effect from 1 August 2026.

Mwelase takes up the post as the City begins implementing the National Treasury’s Metro Trading Services Reform, a Cabinet-endorsed programme that ties infrastructure funding to measurable improvements in water, sanitation, electricity and solid waste services.

Mwelase’s appointment marks an important milestone in the Municipality’s commitment to building a financially sustainable, customer-focused and resilient water and sanitation service.

The reforms are aimed at strengthening the financial and operational sustainability of municipal trading services through improved governance, enhanced accountability, greater operational efficiency, and the delivery of reliable and sustainable water and sanitation services to eThekwini residents.

A registered civil engineer by profession, Mr Mwelase holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and has more than 25 years of experience in the water and infrastructure sector. His extensive technical expertise is complemented by significant commercial management experience.

Welcoming the appointment, City Manager Mr Musa Mbhele said the City is confident that Mr Mwelase’s leadership will play a key role in driving the transformation of the Water and Sanitation Directorate.

“The appointment of Siyanda Mwelase comes at a critical time as the City accelerates efforts to improve the reliability, efficiency and sustainability of its water and sanitation infrastructure. His experience and strategic leadership will help fast-track our turnaround initiatives, strengthen service delivery, and support the City’s commitment to providing residents with a more reliable and resilient water supply and sanitation service,” said Mbhele.

Expressing his appreciation for the opportunity, Mr Mwelase said he was honoured to join the Municipality at such an important stage in its transformation journey.

“I am honoured and excited to join eThekwini Municipality at such a pivotal time in its journey of renewal and transformation. I am fully committed to advancing the City’s Vision 2030 and contributing to the ongoing rejuvenation of the Municipality through sustainable and innovative water and sanitation services,” said Mr Mwelase.

He is looking forward to working alongside employees, stakeholders and communities to strengthen service delivery and improve operational performance.