Embattled Amatola Water appoints new CEO

EXPERIENCED administrator Vuyo Zitumane has been appointed as the troubled Amatola Water Board’s chief executive.

Zitumane’s appointment comes seven months after the water utility’s chairwoman, Nokulunga Mnqeta, gave former CEO Lefadi Makibinyane his marching orders.

Makibinyane’s axing followed a dramatic suspension in March last year in the middle of chairing the company’s 2017-18 strategy session at the East London Golf Club.

The board’s spokesman, Connie Buso, confirmed Zitumane’s appointment, which was announced by the cabinet yesterday morning.

She said the cabinet had appointed Zitumane on the recommendation of the board.

In the past two months Amatola had appointed three senior managers as part of its strategy in stabilising the water utility, she added.

“Zitumane comes with a formidable track record, having served in numerous senior positions in the public sector. She has served as the chair on two of the Eastern Cape’s development agencies – Joe Gqabi and Buffalo City.

“She has also gained vast experience in implementing a range of high impact turnaround interventions in the public sector,” said Buso.

Zitumane resigned from the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro, where she had been the corporate services executive director.

She takes over from Asanda Gidana, who has been chief executive in an acting capacity while a permanent replacement was sought.

Mnqeta said Zitumane’s immediate focus in her new role would be on driving the turnaround strategy.