Public Private Partnerships - Umngeni Water Services

PUBLIC PRIVATE
PARTNERSHIPS

“Partnering for a Sustainable Water Future.”

At uMngeni Water Services (UWS), we believe that sustainable water security can only be achieved through collaboration. We are committed to innovative and inclusive models of service delivery that harness the strengths of both the public and private sectors.

Public-private partnerships (PPPs) provide a strategic platform for infrastructure investment, operational efficiency, and knowledge transfer—ensuring reliable and resilient water services for all communities.

Our Commitment to PPPs:

1. Technical Support

UWS is open to exploring and entering into mutually beneficial PPP arrangements that:

Accelerate infrastructure development for bulk water supply, wastewater treatment, and non-revenue water reduction
Introduce innovation in water reuse, desalination, digital monitoring, and smart metering
Improve cost recovery and sustainability through performance-based service models
Leverage private sector financing and expertise while maintaining public sector oversight and accountability

Our PPP engagements are governed by South Africa’s regulatory framework, including the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA) and National Treasury PPP Guidelines, ensuring transparency, value for money, and public interest alignment.

A Proven Model: The Durban Water Recycling Project

The Durban Water Recycling Project is a pioneering example of PPP success in the South African water sector. Initiated in 2001, this award-winning partnership involves uMngeni Water Services, eThekwini Municipality, and the private sector operator Veolia Water Technologies South Africa.

Project Highlights:

First private water recycling plant in Africa
Treats up to 47 million litres of domestic and industrial wastewater per day
Supplies high-quality reclaimed water to major industrial users like SAPREF, Mondelēz, and SABMiller, reducing the demand on potable water
Supports sustainable industrial growth and preserves drinking water resources for municipal use.

This project showcases the environmental, economic, and operational benefits that PPPs can unlock when public and private sectors align around shared goals.

Opportunities for Partnership

We invite private sector partners—local and international—to collaborate with us in areas such as:

Water reuse and recycling
Decentralised wastewater treatment solutions
Smart infrastructure and digitisation
Renewable energy integration in water operations
Operation and maintenance of treatment plants
Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) and Lease models

Together, we can expand access, improve efficiency, and build climate-resilient water systems.

Get in Touch

Are you a private sector player looking to partner on a water infrastructure initiative? Contact our Business Development Services & Operations Division to explore current and future opportunities.