Established in the 2003/2004 financial year under the Municipal Systems Act, 2000, the Rustenburg Water Service Trust (RWST) serves as a dedicated municipal entity for the Rustenburg Local Municipality (RLM). Acting as a specialized service delivery vehicle, RWST supports RLM in its role as the Water Services Authority, focusing on the provision, management, and development of water services across the municipality.

The creation of RWST marks a strategic move by the municipality to strengthen its service delivery capabilities, boost operational efficiency, and ensure the long-term sustainability of its water resources and infrastructure. Governed by its Trust Deed and operating under the guidance of the Rustenburg Local Municipality, RWST remains accountable to the municipality while driving forward its mandate of reliable water service management.