The CEO of Magalies Water has announced his resignation, marking the end of a significant era for the water utility that serves parts of the Free State, North West, and Gauteng.

Sandile Mkhize, who has been with the North West’s only Water Board for almost a decade, will officially step down at the end of June. Mkhize’s journey with Magalies Water began in 2014 when he was appointed as the General Manager of Water Services. He was then appointment as CEO in 2018.

‘Mkhize’s tenure was marked by remarkable financial growth’

Over the years, he has played a pivotal role in the growth and development of the water utility. David Magae, Magalies Water’s Communications and Media Relations Manager, highlighted Mkhize’s significant contributions.

“Under his leadership, Magalies Water successfully integrated Sedibeng Water into its operations. This integration, prompted by Sedibeng Water’s financial struggles, saw Magalies Water expand its service area to include the Ngaka Modiri Molema and Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati districts. The workforce also grew from 370 to over 700 employees.”

He said Mkhize’s tenure was marked by remarkable financial growth after he oversaw an increase in revenue from R0.2 billion in 2014/15 to R1.2 billion in the 2022/23 financial year. Additionally, the utility’s assets grew from R0.9 billion to over R4.5 billion. Notably, Magalies Water achieved three consecutive clean audits from 2019/20 to 2021/22.

‘We are saddened by the departure of Mkhize’

Board Chairperson Dr Lydia Sebego praised Mkhize for his leadership, particularly during the challenging period of integrating Magalies Water and Sedibeng Water. She acknowledged the anxiety and uncertainty that accompanied the integration but highlighted Mkhize’s ability to steer the utility through these times successfully.

“We are saddened by the departure of Mkhize given his contributions to the company and wish him well in his future endeavours,” Sebego said.

Meanwhile, Magae mentioned the process of appointing an acting CEO is underway and an announcement will be made to the public and stakeholders once internal procedures have been completed.

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