About Us

Our Focus is on Delivering Sustainable Water Solutions for Community Development.

Rustenburg Water Services Trust (RWST) is dedicated to ensuring sustainable, safe, and reliable water services for the communities of Rustenburg and surrounding regions. As a public entity, we play a critical role in managing, developing, and maintaining water infrastructure that supports economic growth, environmental stewardship, and the wellbeing of all citizens. Our team comprises skilled professionals committed to operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and innovative solutions in water resource management.

We partner with stakeholders across government, industry, and local communities to address water challenges, improve service delivery, and secure the region’s water future. At RWST, we believe access to clean water is a fundamental right and a cornerstone for social and economic development. Through proactive maintenance, technological innovation, and sustainable practices, we strive to build a resilient water system for generations to come.

2003

Establishment of RWST

-RWST is established as a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) under the Rustenburg Local Municipality.
-The goal: manage, finance, and upgrade the region's bulk water and sanitation infrastructure.
-RWST signs a 25 year concession contract to implement large-scale water service improvements.

2004-2006

Initial Infrastructure Takeover and Assessment

-RWST conducts comprehensive audits and technical assessments of inherited infrastructure.
-Begins development planning for upgrades to Vaalkop Water Treatment Works, reservoirs, and pipelines.

2007

ABSA Loan Secured

-RWST secures a R280 million commercial loan from ABSA Bank for infrastructure upgrades.
-First successful private sector-financed municipal water infrastructure model in South Africa.

2008-2010

Major Infrastructure Projects Commence

-Upgrades begin on the Vaalkop Water Treatment Works.
-Construction of the Tlhabane Reservoir begins (30 ML capacity).
-Expansion of bulk pipeline networks to peri-urban and industrial zones.

2011

Wastewater Recycling Model Introduced

-RWST implements an industrial off-take agreement with mines for treated wastewater.
-Cost recovery enhanced via partnerships with Anglo Platinum and Impala Platinum.

2012–2014

Strengthening Financial Sustainability

-RWST achieves financial reserve surplus of over USD 12 million.
-Becomes a model for sustainable municipal infrastructure financing in South Africa.
-Attracts attention from World Bank and other global observers.

2015

Advanced Maintenance Systems Introduced

-Shift from reactive to preventative maintenance models using SCADA and GIS tools.
-Improves network uptime and reduces water losses.

2016–2019

Regional Expansion & Collaborative Planning

-RWST participates in planning phases of the Pilanesberg Bulk Water Supply Scheme (PBWSS).
-Coordinates with Department of Water and Sanitation, Magalies Water, and Royal Bafokeng Nation.

WE DELIVER

We See Water Infrastructure as the Foundation for Thriving Communities

RWST delivers reliable, sustainable water and sanitation solutions that strengthen the backbone of local development. Our expertise spans technical project implementation, stakeholder collaboration, and infrastructure financing—ensuring clean water reaches the communities that need it most. From bulk pipeline design to digital monitoring systems, we are committed to long-term impact and operational excellence.

Infrastructure Delivery

90%

Financial Sustainability

85%

Service Reliability

95%

Discovery More

Delivering Clean Water with Integrity