The International Water Association (IWA) has awarded Rand Water from South Africa the Project Innovation Award–Grand Award. A non-profit public utility based in Gauteng, Rand Water won the award for their innovative “Water Wise” campaign, aimed at informing communities about conserving water resources, and reducing water consumption, during a period of severe drought in South Africa.
“This award is clear recognition by an international panel of judges of the excellence and innovation of the Water Wise education programme,” said Hamanth Kasan, General Manager, Rand Water. “The award will inspire the Water Wise team, part of South Africa’s Rand Water. Rand Water and the Water Wise team are delighted and grateful for the award, which comes at a time when we are experiencing a severe drought in the country.”
The IWA Project Innovation Awards are now in their tenth year. They are a global competition and the winners have been selected for their innovation and excellence in water management. They highlight innovative and practical solutions to global water challenges. To win an award, a project must improve efficiency, and provide real economic and health benefits throughout the water cycle.
“The water sector is facing unprecedented global challenges,” said Ger Bergkamp, Executive Director, International Water Association. “Urgent and innovative action is necessary to ensure a sustainable water future. The drought that is still gripping South Africa is one such challenge. The only way to take better advantage of limited water resources is by changing people’s attitude and their behaviours so that water is used more wisely. Rand Water are innovating how to do this, and are setting a successful example to other water utilities.”
The Project Innovation Awards were held during the IWA World Water Congress & Exhibition in Brisbane, Australia. The winners were announced at an award ceremony at Rydges, South Bank.
