The second day of the African Construction and Totally Concrete Expo, has seen industry experts, leaders, students – and those with a general interest in the construction and built industry – gather at the Gallagher Convention Centre, in Midrand, Johannesburg. In the spotlight was the co-located Civilution event which focused on water security – a concerning issue as many parts of South Africa has been facing drought for an extended period, which has compromised water security significantly.
Civilution, one of the eight co-located events – sponsored by GladAfrica Group, JG Afrika, Roadlab and Sanlam – is a platform for conversation between engineers aimed at bringing about transformation, diversity, leadership and evolution in local and global societies – to improve the quality of life for all citizens.
With the ongoing drought parts of South Africa is currently experiencing, Professional and Chartered Engineer, Mike Muller presented a workshop session on Water Security in Southern Africa. Says Muller, “We need to be concerned about the water resources that underpin water supply. Gauteng’s strategic reserve is held in the Sterkfontein Dam, the third largest in South Africa and it holds more water than the Vaal Dam.”
Muller continues, “It is not filled by a river, but pumped in by Eskom from the Thukela in KwaZulu Natal. For some reason, in December Minister Mokonyane – Minister of Water Affairs and Sanitation of South Africa – decided to release 10% of the water in Sterkfontein. That is enough to keep Rand Water working for two months. The Department promised to replace it rapidly. However, six months later the dam is still 10% lower than it should be.
“We need the Minister to explain why her Department is reducing Gauteng’s water security and what she is going to do about it. If this year’s drought continues into the next season, we will be at risk of severe restrictions,” concludes Muller.
With six thousand net square meters allocated to over 180 exhibitors, the African Construction and Totally Concrete Expo, provides attendees with the option of roaming between eight co-located events under one roof. The African Construction and Totally Concrete Expo, now in its fourth year has launched an exciting new outdoor expo. The outdoor expo is an interactive area hosting sessions which include live demonstrations, exposure to heavy machinery and equipment, access to experiences such as drilling and bricklaying competitions, visitor challenges and the AfriSam beer garden.
The third and final day of the AfricanConstructionand Totally Concrete Expo will bring news of the winners of the Women in Construction Awards hosted by the City of Jo’burg. In addition, expo visitors can attend Construction IT soft lounge and visit both the indoor and outdoor expos.
Visitors who wish to attend the African Constructionand Totally Concrete are still able to do so and are welcome to register onsite at Hall 5. The Expo closes at 16:00 on 11 May 2016.
