
Urgent need for collaboration in addressing KZN’s infrastructure challenges
We hosted the KwaZulu-Natal Branch Function in Umhlanga on Wednesday, 17 July 2024. Our President, David Leukes, shared his insights on how we can be “Stronger Together to Secure a Sustainable Future for All.” He highlighted the need for collaboration between government and the private sector, particularly in infrastructure development as well as rebuilding efforts in KZN.
Leukes stressed the urgency of addressing the impact of climate change on infrastructure; the importance of avoiding siloed operations across government departments in addressing the country’s critical challenges; and the urgent need for collaboration to address infrastructure challenges, including improving water infrastructure, quality and essential services in KZN.
Our MC for the event, Naomi Naidoo, a CESA Board Member and Director at Pink Africa Consulting Engineers, facilitated the event. Sagren Narasimulu, our CESA KZN Branch Chairperson and Managing Director at Makhaotse, Narasimulu and Associates (Pty) Ltd, delivered the welcome speech.
The event continued with guest speakers Daniel Nolte, Head of Capacitation at the Centre for Municipal Asset Management CMAM – SA, presenting on “Collaboration in Planning.” Additionally, Mark Scott, Planning Engineer at uMngeni-uThukela Water, shared his insights on “Water Hydropower – Energy Security.” Veer Ramnarain Pr Eng, FSAIEE, Deputy Head of the Electricity Unit, High Voltage Operations, at eThekwini Municipality and President of SAIEE, also discussed: “Collaboration – Electricity Sectors.”
Our CEO Christopher Campbell facilitated the Q&A session and also shared his insights on national issues and solutions impacting the industry. The function provided a platform for fruitful discussion and collaboration. Thank you to our guest speakers, CESA KZN branch members, partners, and everyone who attended the Branch Function, for enabling a successful event. Let us continue to work together to achieve a sustainable future for all.