The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) says that the transition of the proto-Catchment Management Agency (proto-CMA) to the Vaal-Orange CMA will be seamless.

This followed a meeting, on August 16, between the DWS, the Gauteng DWS and the employees of the proto-CMA to seek input from the employees to facilitate a smooth transition from the government to the newly established Vaal-Orange CMA.

Overall, the meeting between the DWS and proto-CMA employees was a positive step towards facilitating a successful transition.

The Vaal-Orange CMA was established by Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu on November 25, 2022, extending the boundaries and operational area of the Vaal River CMA to include the Orange water management area, with all initial functions and delegated functions performed in the Vaal River CMA to now fall under the Vaal-Orange CMA.

The purpose of the CMA is to enhance decentralised decision-making involving stakeholders in managing water resources at a local level.

The CMA will assume various functions outlined in Section 80 of the National Water Act, including coordinating water use activities and managing institutions related to water users within the water management area.

Recognising that change can be challenging, both the provincial office and the national office are committed to assisting employees and ensuring a smooth and effortless transition, says DWS provincial head Justice Maluleke.

As the DWS strives to make the transition as smooth as possible for the employees affected by this change and aims to put in place measures to address any potential concerns, one of the concerns expressed is the potential loss of government benefits during the transition.

While not all benefits will be transferred, the department assures employees that some benefits will accompany them to their new positions.

It is the department's goal to ensure that employee's well-being and job security are protected during this transition process and, as the transition progresses, it is essential for both the DWS and the employees to maintain open lines of communication.

Addressing concerns, providing regular updates and ensuring that employees feel supported throughout the process will be crucial for a successful transition.