Salute to a consummate professional

THE Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) in Western Cape’s management is overwhelmed with mixed feelings in sending off this giant, Sputnik Ratau, a seasoned communicator of all times, a professional communicator who played a vital role in shaping perceptions about the government’s ability to communicate to the citizenry.

“Ntate Ratau” you have been a beacon of hope and inspiration for the Western Cape provincial office. During your journey at DWS, you left many footprints in communicating messages for the department, one of which was during the most severe drought in memory which ravaged the Western Cape in 2017-18. During that time, Cape Town and its surrounds faced the prospect of running out of water, which other sectors referred to as Day Zero.

In spite of the daunting task of handling hostile and complex media enquiries that were not only local but from across the globe, Mr Ratau assured the citizens that the government was doing everything possible to stretch the water drops until the rains came. That was Mr Ratau discharging his duties with distinction.

It is common to perceive spokespersons as spin doctors covering up wrongdoing, but your articulation of facts and truths during these unprecedented and difficult times set you apart as a real professional.

The unique quality of your communication abilities was the in-depth knowledge you had about the department’s programmes and campaigns to change the lives of citizens. This made your job of disseminating information sincere and seamless.

As the collective of Western Cape management, we would like to thank you for your many years of service to the department, in particular, and the government at large. Our sincere thanks are extended to you and your family.

The transition from work to retirement is a time for looking back with satisfaction, anticipating, and enjoying each day. Your dedication to our department has been evident for years, giving 100% of yourself every day. Ntate Ratau now is the time to relax and have fun.

Last but not least, as DWS Western Cape management, we say remember the past with fondness, look at the future with eagerness.

Enjoy the transition to the new chapter of your life, you deserve it. | DWS Western Cape Management