Bringing Together Expertise and Innovation
The Water Institute of Southern Africa (WISA) is a vital platform where experts from various sectors gather to discuss and create solutions for our ongoing water challenges. As an independent, voluntary organisation, WISA is dedicated to advancing the African water sector through effective representation, corporate governance, and professional development. Recognised by SAQA as a Professional Body, WISA brings together key stakeholders like JoJo, alongside the Department of Water and Sanitation and the municipalities of Cape Town, eThekwini, and Tshwane, to lead the way towards a more sustainable water future.
“Turn the Tide”: Conference Theme for 2024
The WISA Biennial Conference & Exhibition is one of the largest gatherings of water sector professionals. This year, the event, themed “Turn the Tide,” attracted a diverse audience of over 1,800 delegates and 600 exhibition visitors. From civil engineers to property developers, municipal officials to academics, the conference brought together professionals eager to exchange ideas and find practical solutions for water sustainability.
The exhibition, which featured 148 exhibitors, showcased cutting-edge water technologies, products, and services that address both immediate and long-term challenges. With key topics covered in parallel sessions, the five conference sub-themes—ranging from improving governance to leveraging innovation – set the stage for meaningful discussions and action-oriented takeaways.
Technical Tours and Groundbreaking Projects
WISA 2024 kicked off with a series of technical tours that offered delegates an up-close look at real-world solutions. Highlights included a visit to the Durban Water Recycling Plant and the Darvill Wastewater Reclamation Plant. Perhaps the most inspiring stop was at Julukandado Primary School, where an innovative sanitation system, overseen by the University of KwaZulu-Natal, provides safe, hygienic facilities for 800 learners while enabling nutrient recovery for local farming cooperatives. This project showcases the possibilities of future-focused, sustainable water and sanitation solutions.
JoJo’s Role in Water Sustainability
As a patron member of WISA, JoJo proudly participated in this year’s exhibition, showcasing our “ready to go off-grid” water solutions. From rainwater harvesting to borehole installations, our complete range of water storage, pumps, and filtration solutions address the need for sustainable water management at every level.
Our subsidiary, Calcamite, was also present, offering on-site sanitation solutions. Calcamite’s SABS-approved septic tanks and modular sewage treatment plants, capable of handling up to 250,000 litres per day, are tailor-made for areas lacking centralised sewerage systems. These solutions are a vital step toward ensuring clean water in communities across South Africa.
New Innovations and Product Highlights
JoJo continues to push the boundaries of water management. At WISA, we introduced smaller, pre-packaged sewage treatment plants, ideal for households without access to municipal sewerage systems. These units, designed to treat 1,000 to 2,000 litres of sewage per day, offer an affordable and environmentally friendly option for recycling water for irrigation and sustaining home gardens. Manufactured at the Calcamite factory in Rosslyn, these plants are delivered fully equipped with plumbing, pumps, and blowers, making installation and maintenance simple for local plumbers.
Connecting with the Water Community
Throughout the conference, our stand saw significant engagement from industry professionals and potential customers alike. Many were particularly interested in our smaller-scale sewage treatment plants, with one attendee sharing plans to implement the system in a residential area without access to centralised sanitation. This kind of direct feedback reaffirms the importance of our mission: to provide affordable, sustainable water solutions for all.
Looking Ahead: JoJo’s Continued Commitment
As a long-term patron member of WISA, JoJo is committed to driving sustainable water solutions across South Africa. We look forward to sharing our expertise, products, and services at future events and continuing to engage with key stakeholders in the water sector. Follow JoJo on social media for updates on upcoming product launches and events.
