Letter from Umvoto’s Managing Director
I welcome the opportunity to once again share my overview of the last year as a member of the family of Umvoto. Little did I realise how quickly time flies when you are having fun especially when you can observe professionals at work who are so passionate about supporting our underlying focus of seeking to deliver earth science-based research and consulting services focusing on environmentally and socially sustainable solutions. It is not often as a member of the leadership team that you have a chance to look backwards, as we are always so focussed on the future. I would like to share some of Umvoto’s highlights as seen from the MD’s desk for the year of 2024.The number 1 highlight for me has been the professional and energetic staffing at Umvoto. As we welcome all our new staff, I found it most encouraging that the Umvoto brand can still retain and attract the quality of specialists in this space. Maybe our wonderful location has something to do with this!
An exciting new development taking place is the journey of improving services and adding value to our customers through advanced data management and analysis. My wish last year was that in a year’s time the Umvoto brand and family are still going strong, and we are. This has been a rewarding year on so many levels, so I would like to extent my wish to “long may this continue for the future”. As you take time off over the festive season, may the joy of spending time with your families and loved ones be equally memorable and enjoyable.
Best Regards
Managing Director
Staff News
HIGHLIGHTS
2024 has been another successful and fulfilling year at Umvoto, with long-term projects continuing and new projects and partnerships beginning. Fieldwork continued across numerous projects which allowed staff to experience the joys of nature while undertaking scientific research.
In honour of Mandela Day, and in collaboration with The Umvoto Foundation (TUF), staff participated in making sandwiches for the Haven Night Shelter in Kalk Bay making 150 sandwiches for people in need. Well done team!
Umvoto also participated in Casual Day where instead of wearing casual clothes (as Umvoto’s every day apparel is casual) staff wore smart attire for the day to raise awareness for persons with disabilities.
WELCOME
Umvoto welcomes new staff members to the team: Philip Geldenhuys and Wiehan Swanepoel (Hydrogeologists); Daniel Marx (Geologist); Errol Malijani (Junior Water Scientist); Sebastian Stenzl, Bomkazi Vava, and Kirsten Raible (Junior Hydrogeologists); Robert Guy (Sales Executive); and Yolanda Mofu (Bookkeeper). The 2024 internship programme continued in October with two new interns joining Umvoto for six months. Welcome Aqeelah Benjamin and Anele Matsebula!
Umvoto also welcomed student Lily who spent two days in October work shadowing some of Umvoto’s staff to gain a better understanding of what a scientist does.
And student Kyle Louw from Stellenbosch University who work shadowed for a month over November and December to gain practical experience in hydrogeology.
MARKETING INITIATIVES
Umvoto’s social media marketing continued, showcasing the various work undertaken and services offered by Umvoto. This has received positive feedback and improved analytics. 2024 also saw the introduction of Robert Guy as Umvoto’s new Sales Executive to leverage Umvoto’s successes into new markets.
Umvoto has a reputation, earned over 30 years, for a rigorously scientific approach; providing innovative solutions to challenges; and a commitment to the environment. Capital investments in hardware and software products during 2025, will expand our service products across the hydrological cycle while maintaining our core brand around hydrogeological excellence. Umvoto’s extended capabilities in ‘Holistic Sustainability’ will encompass all our operational sectors. The required geographical reach based on existing and developing partnerships with entities who share our values.
TRAVEL
Several of Umvoto’s staff have had the opportunity to travel this year, from Switzerland to Greece to Mauritius to the Fish River Canyon.
Ronnie Kingwill was lucky enough to visit various countries this year, starting with a visit to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe in May for the Zimbabwe Nomads Golf event, followed by a visit to St Pierre Country Club in Chepstow Wales soon after crossing the border bridge from England for the UK Nomads National Golf event in July. When in London, Ronnie saw the National Covid Memorial Wall along the banks of the Thames. Lastly, Ronnie visited the Hadrian Gate and Waterfalls of Antalya in Turkey and the pebble beaches for a short break.
Victoria Falls (left), National Covid Memorial Wall (middle), and St Pierre Country Club in Chepstow Wales (right).
Kornelius Riemann took time off to visit family and childhood friends in Germany for the first time since COVID. The trip covered all seasons from very hot summer days while travelling through Germany from Hannover to Stuttgart and Munich, to rain and snow while attending the International Association of Hydrogeologists (IAH) Congress in Davos, Switzerland (read more on this below under Conferences and Workshops below). Despite the challenge of using a walking stick during the trip, it was enjoyable and great to meet up with extended family again. He also had a chance to go on a photographic safari to the Madikwe Nature Reserve in the North-West Province.
Samual Fraser completed the Amatola Hiking Trail in the Eastern Cape, also known as the Waterfall Hike, in January. The six day hike is deemed “South Africa’s toughest hutted hiking trail” spanning 100 km from start to finish.
In May, Shaakirah Adams visited her sister who now lives in Nice, France. They had not seen each other in four years so had a lot to catch up on and did so by travelling by train along the south of France by visiting various small towns and cities. Finally, their parents joined them, after which they travelled to Sanremo, Italy where they enjoyed the rest of their holiday together.
David McGibbon visited the Seychelles in June with his family where he spent time on the islands of Mahé and La Digue. Whilst there he enjoyed the picturesque beaches, hiking to remote beaches and bars and also various sites for snorkelling. Unfortunately, the beach activities were cut short with a kayaking incident that meant David was restricted to watching the others from the shore where he was still able to bird watch and test Seychelles finest drinks.
Daniel Marx took some time off in September and travelled to Greece to celebrate his godmother’s 60th birthday with their families. They stayed in the picturesque town of Sounio on the southern tip of the mainland near the Temple of Poseidon. Their days were spent relaxing on the beach, hiking and enjoying the local beers and Greek cuisine. Highlights of the trip included the birthday celebration at the villa, a day-visit to the Acropolis (Parthenon) in Athens, and seeing a wild turtle while snorkelling. To end the trip, Daniel’s family ferried to the island of Aegina (known for its pistachio nuts), where they spent three days exploring the small towns and villages around the island as well as celebrating his parent’s 30th wedding anniversary.
In June, Eddie Wise took on South Africa’s Otter Trail, a hike that requires planning months in advance. This year’s heavy winter rains added a unique challenge, turning the river crossings into full, fast-flowing channels. With extra caution and a few emergency detours, Eddie and his group carefully navigated the trail’s flooded crossings.
The Otter Trail’s natural scenery, from coastal cliffs to quiet forest paths, made the effort worthwhile. Eddie found moments of calm in the landscape – quiet beaches, forested stretches, and expansive ocean views. Reflecting on the experience, he appreciates the steady pace and simplicity of time outdoors, a reminder of what nature offers when things get hectic back at work. Even with the weather’s surprises, it was a trip he’ll remember for its beauty and balance of challenge and reward.
In September Keanan Woolf and Samual Fraser took on the iconic Fish River Canyon hike in Namibia. Traversing one of the largest canyons in the world, they tackled rugged terrain, breathtaking views, and the winding path of the Fish River.
In November Shaakirah Adams, Jannie Weitz, Samual Fraser, Wiehan Swanepoel, and Kim Parker braved the 35oC heat to climb and camp overnight at the iconic Wolfberg Arch in the Cederberg mountains. Stunning views, team bonding, and unforgettable memories made this trip one for the books!
In November, Warrick Daws went to Patagonia to celebrate his 30th birthday. He found beautiful scenery close to 50° south and was refreshed after returning from the cold rugged wilderness.
Jannie Weitz recently returned from Switzerland (right), where he attended the IAH Congress in Davos and took some time for sightseeing. He also went on a 4×4 trip to Gamkaskloof (Die Hell) to explore the Swartberg Mountains (bottom left) and enjoy the natural surroundings. During a visit to Kruger National Park (bottom right), Jannie had the chance to see the Big Five.
Some staff participated in various marathons during the course of the year. Londeka Gumede ran the 10 km race at the Spartan Harriers Firgrove Challenge with Discovery Vitality in February. Jannie Weitz, David McGibbon, Khutjo Diphofe, Matthew Misrole, Melissa Rankin, Simphiwe Stemela, Delmarie Carolissen, Londeka Gumede, and Shaakirah Adams ran the 5 km and 10 km races at the Spar Women’s Challenge in March. David McGibbon completed a number of the marathons and also completed the Two Oceans Ultra Marathon and Puffer (Peninsula Ultra Fun Run) trail race. Jannie Weitz participated in the Trail Dawgs Winter Wipeout in July. Sebastian Stenzl, Bomkazi Vava, Shaakirah Adams, Jannie Weitz, Simphiwe Stemela, Delmarie Carolissen, Londeka Gumede, Lucia Mhlanga, Kirsten Raible, Errol Malijani, and Siyabulela Mafilika participated in the 10 km Totalsports Women’s Race in August. Delmarie Carolissen, Londeka Gumede, and Khutjo Diphofe participated in the 5 km Sanlam Cape Town Marathon in October.
ACADEMIC MILESTONES
Congratulations to Philip Geldenhuys and Wiehan Swanepoel for being awarded their Professional Natural Scientist registration in the Geological Science and Earth Sciences Field of Practice, respectively, with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP). Congratulations to Melissa Rankin for being awarded her Certificated registration in the Environmental Management Field of Practice, as well as to Kirsten Raible and Sebastian Stenzl for being awarded their Candidate Natural Scientist registration in Earth Sciences with SACNASP.
Kirsten Raible graduated with her Master of Science in September in Engineering and Environmental Geology – Hydrogeology from the University of Pretoria, focusing on Hydrochemistry, hydrogen and oxygen isotopes, and radon in waters of the greater Timbavati catchment, South Africa.
Kirsten Raible at her Masters graduation.
CONGRATULATIONS
Congratulations to Melissa Rankin on her marriage to Gregory Weeks.
Internal Development and Contributions
CONFERENCES AND WORKSHOPS
Dylan Blake presented on the hydrogeology of the greater Hermanus area (Umvoto has been developing the groundwater supply system for the Overstrand Local Municipality for over 20 years) at the second Overstrand Environmental Seminar in February, and at the GSSA Groundwater Division Western Cape Branch in April. Dylan also assisted in presenting on hydrogeological aspects during two Overberg Geoscientist Group (OGG) day trips to the Cape Peninsula and Botrivier Valley.
Gemma Bluff (Senior Climatologist), Melissa Rankin (Environmentalist) and Kim Parker (Junior Environmentalist) of the Environmental Department attended and presented at the International Association for Impact Assessment South Africa (IAIAsa) Annual Conference in August on the Cape Flats Aquifer Management Scheme, the role of Environmental Control Officers and the Overstrand Integrated Water Resource and Environmental Management.
Kornelius Riemann and Jannie Weitz attended and presented at the IAH 51st Worldwide Groundwater Congress in Davos, Switzerland in September that brought together experts, researchers, and policymakers from around the world to discuss challenges and innovations in groundwater management and sustainability. The congress addressed key topics including the impacts of climate change on aquifers, advanced water resource management strategies, and the integration of groundwater science into policy frameworks. Participants engaged in workshops, presentations, and discussions, focusing on new technologies and approaches to safeguard groundwater resources. Set in the Swiss Alps, the event provided a relevant setting to examine the importance of sustainable water management practices.
As part of the Refinement of Strategic Groundwater Source Areas in South Africa project, Umvoto Scientists Matthew Misrole, Shaakirah Adams, and Eddie Wise hosted a Data and Information Assessment workshop on 16th July. Six Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) officials participated in this session, which focused on skills for acquiring, evaluating, and managing groundwater datasets. Participants were introduced to tools like SQL, Python, R, and QGIS, enhancing their ability to support project objectives in data management and analysis.
INTERNAL DEVELOPMENT
In March, five junior staff members (Kim Parker, Lucia Mhlanga, Raees Stevens, Warrick Daws, and Londeka Gumede) participated in a three-day Introduction to Environmental Monitoring Training Course hosted by Van Walt, designed to enhance environmental fieldwork skills. The course focused on improving theoretical knowledge, best practice techniques, and understanding environmental standards. Participants also explored cost-effective equipment options to achieve the most accurate results in the field.
On September 17th, Shaakirah Adams, Matthew Misrole, and Eddie Wise attended an engaging event hosted by the Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry at Henley Business School in Cape Town. The topic, “AI is about to change the way we work,” brought together industry leaders and experts to discuss the evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace. With AI poised to redefine workflows and decision-making processes, the Umvoto team gained valuable insights into how advanced technologies can drive efficiency and innovation in their own projects. This event provided a unique opportunity to reflect on AI’s potential impact, network with other professionals, and consider how these advancements could support Umvoto’s commitment to sustainable environmental management and geospatial analysis.
The Groundwater Modelling Course (attended by Matthew Misrole, Jannie Weitz, Wiehan Swanepoel, Shaakirah Adams, and Lucia Mhlanga) was designed for professionals in the groundwater industry seeking an introduction to both the theory and practical skills of groundwater modelling. Course highlights included groundwater modelling theory, covering methods such as Finite Difference, Finite Element, and Iteration techniques, as well as hands-on practical tutorials and applications grounded in real consulting case studies. Dr Amy Allwright of Stellenbosch University led the course, with Dr Jannie Weitz from Umvoto as an invited guest presenter, offering insights into the current applications and future potential of groundwater modelling in the industry.
Our internal development sessions, known as Brown Bag lectures, are casual and interactive gatherings where team members come together to share and discuss various topics of interest. Stemming from the pre-COVID tradition of meeting downstairs with a laid-back atmosphere including drinks and snacks, these sessions feature presentations by staff members and external invited guests on various topics. The topics covered range from conference presentations and recent developments to personal experiences. Occasionally, we also welcome external contributors who share insights relevant to our work as earth scientists.
This year’s Brown Bag lectures have been a testament to our team’s dedication to growth and learning. We began with a heartfelt farewell to Luke Towers, who reflected on his tenure at Umvoto, along with introductions to new team members. From farewells and welcomes to insightful presentations on monitoring, environmental initiatives, and quality management, each session has enriched our team’s collective knowledge. These gatherings have not only enhanced our technical expertise but also strengthened our collaborative spirit.
STRIVING TOWARDS THE SDGs
Umvoto has aligned with the United Nations’ Forward Faster campaign which aims to increase company accountability and transparency in our commitments to strive for Gender Equality, Climate Action and Water Resilience under the Sustainable Development Goals. The Water Resilience target includes endorsing the CEO Water Mandate, which aims to advance global corporate water stewardship, where companies have a forum “to share good practices and forge partnerships to address urgent water challenges related to scarcity, quality, governance and access to water and sanitation”. Read more on our SDG initiatives here.
The Umvoto Foundation
TUF continued work on projects initiated during 2024, including:, including:
- Continued development of the Hermanus Water Walk and geoheritage field guidebook, which will be completed in early 2025.
- Continued hydrochemical sampling of the Silvermine River and Wetland for the Friends of the Silvermine Nature Area (FOSNA).
- Hydrochemical sampling of the various seeps and springs for the Friends of the Muizenberg Park (FOMP), to assist with the indigenous vegetation and wetland restoration within the park..
Projects
UPDATES ON EXISTING LONG-TERM PROJECTS
City of Cape Town New Water Programme
Atlantis Water Resource Management Scheme (AWRMS)
Umvoto’s ongoing efforts in refurbishing and optimising the Atlantis Water Resource Management Scheme (AWRMS), along with Zutari and the City of Cape Town’s (CCT) Bulk Water Branch, continued throughout the year. Great effort at refurbishing the Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) infrastructure has also been spent this year with Umvoto securing the CCT a Water Use Licence for the reconstruction of key infrastructure; vital to the safe and successful recharging of the aquifer.
Additional borehole drilling was undertaken in the CCTs effort to protect the Atlantis Aquifer and the AWRMS as a whole. Monitoring boreholes were drilled around MAR Basin 7 to control risks. Monitoring boreholes were also drilled along the Astron Oil pipeline along the R27 to establish an early-warning system for potential non-aqueous liquid leaks. Testing of these boreholes will be completed in early 2025.
As part of the ongoing maintenance of the scheme, some production boreholes were rehabilitated to improve performance and maximise abstraction.
Monitoring and transient modelling of the aquifer continued and provide valuable insights into long-term potential expansion of the scheme. Despite numerous challenges related to infrastructure vandalism, the AWRMS is set to offer resilience once again to the town of Atlantis.
Table Mountain Group Aquifer Wellfield Development
2024 saw the continued equipping and chamber construction of the three ultra-deep Peninsula Aquifer production boreholes (H8A4 – 1077 m, H8A9 – 1002 m and H8A10 – 1101 m) at Steenbras Wellfield by Zutari, with final wellfield commissioning envisioned in the first half of 2025. Two new ultra-deep (up to 1100 m) core exploration boreholes (H1A17 and H1A18) are in the process of being drilled (with completion expected in January 2025), targeting the Peninsula Aquifer along the northern strand of the Steenbras-Brandvlei Megafault Zone to determine future wellfield expansion areas. Umvoto also continued numerical groundwater modelling of Steenbras Wellfield to determine potential groundwater abstraction impacts for the development of ecological offsets, along with integrating operation of the wellfield with the Western Cape Water Supply System.
Cape Flats Aquifer Management Scheme (CFAMS)
Umvoto continued the development of the Cape Flats Aquifer Management Scheme (CFAMS) under Zutari with the successful commissioning of the Strandfontein West Water Treatment Plant. The year also saw continuous progress in the construction of the advanced water reclamation plant for the source water of the MAR component of the scheme. Additional work included the ongoing monitoring, drilling and rehabilitation of boreholes and hydrogeological assessments to inform design and implementation of the scheme.
Overstrand Local Municipality Groundwater Management
2024 has seen continued groundwater monitoring and management for the Overstrand Local Municipality (LM), including the TMG Aquifer wellfields in Hermanus (Gateway, Camphill and Volmoed Wellfields) and Baardskeerdersbos, and the Kouevlakte Wellfield within the Stanford Aquifer. Umvoto is also assisting the Overstrand LM in investigating the groundwater resources of Pearly Beach, and improving groundwater education for residents in the municipality through the development of an outreach document. One of the major project successes of 2024 was the drilling of two new high yielding Peninsula Aquifer production boreholes (HAV1 up to 15 l/s and T4/5 up to 35 l/s) as part of the Hemel en Aarde Wellfield Expansion, with the boreholes to be equipped and connected to the wellfield in early 2015.
Berg Catchment Groundwater Reserve
In March 2024, Umvoto completed the High Confidence Groundwater Reserve Determination Study for the Berg Catchment. Commissioned by the DWS in February 2022, the study assessed rising Water Use Licence demand and the impact of groundwater developments on resource quantity and quality.
The Berg Catchment, covering 13 891 km² in the Western Cape, includes diverse ecological areas like the Berg River Estuary and Langebaan Lagoon Biosphere Reserve, which receive essential groundwater contributions. The region’s hydrogeology includes both fractured rock and intergranular aquifers critical to groundwater reserves.
Using an eight-step procedure from the Resource Directed Measures (RDM) manuals, our team delineated Groundwater Resource Units, assessed ecological conditions, and established the Reserve for the catchment, prioritising Basic Human Needs and Ecological Water Requirements. This study now provides DWS with a solid foundation for sustainable water management in this vital region.
Groundwater Support to Moses Kotane and Thabazimbi Local Municipalities
As part of the Anglo-American Municipal Capability and Partnership Programme (AA-MCPP), Umvoto is providing expert input and training regarding groundwater resource management in the Moses Kotane Local Municipality (MKLM) in the North-West Province. Aligning with Umvoto’s social ethos, the project has a strong focus on education, training, and capacity building to improve management and maintenance of the water supply systems for safe and sustainable water services for the mainly rural communities.
In 2024, borehole pump operators, maintenance and other technical staff in MKLM were empowered with ongoing training on groundwater monitoring and infrastructure maintenance, record keeping and standardization of operation procedures. Umvoto also supported MKLM with a gap analysis and technical coaching towards the development of a Water Services Development Plan and completed a hydrogeological assessment of the municipality’s groundwater resources.
Oudtshoorn Groundwater Project
Umvoto continues to support Oudtshoorn Municipality with the commissioning and operation of the Blossoms Wellfield, including regular monitoring to ensure sustainability and compliance.
NEW PROJECTS
Apart from Umvoto’s long-term projects, the team also undertook several significant projects during 2024 that ranged in scope and scale:
Major Groundwater Research Projects
Refinement of Strategic Groundwater Source Areas of South Africa
The “Refinement of Strategic Groundwater Source Areas (SWSA-gw) in South Africa” project, commissioned by the DWS, commenced on 1st April 2024 and is scheduled for completion on 31st March 2027. Led by Umvoto, this 36-month initiative builds on foundational studies from 2013 and 2018, aiming to enhance the accuracy and management of these critical groundwater resources by applying updated methodologies and the latest datasets. SWSA-gw areas are essential for South Africa’s water security, especially in arid regions. This project will improve the spatial precision of these areas by focusing on groundwater availability, river baseflow contributions, and resilience to drought. The study also covers transboundary aquifers shared with neighbouring countries, promoting a coordinated approach to groundwater management across borders.
Aligned with national water policies, this initiative supports sustainable water management for South Africa’s future.
Refinement of Groundwater Recharge Estimation Methods
This project commissioned by the Water Research Commission (WRC) has been undertaken by Umvoto since October 2024 and is scheduled for completion by September 2027. This project involves the evaluation of current groundwater recharge methodologies and their limitations with the aim of cultivating a more accurate method of calculation. Currently there is no guideline outlining the accepted method for estimating groundwater recharge rates, however this information is essential for the creation of reliable groundwater models and ensuring groundwater resource protection, especially given the ever-increasing reliance on groundwater in response to climate change. This would ultimately improve precision and effectiveness in groundwater resource management and sustainability while simultaneously contributing to the advancement of scientific knowledge in this field.
Agricultural Sector
Umvoto’s reputation for providing accurate, ethical groundwater consultation services is certainly spreading through the Western Cape Province. 2024 saw continued progress developing Umvoto’s agricultural sector project portfolio. These included groundwater assessment and borehole siting, groundwater development (i.e., drilling, testing, and where required equipping) and licencing at various farms in the Constantia, Grabouw, Stellenbosch, Piketberg, Hemel en Aarde, and Sandveld regions.
Residential, Commercial and Industrial Sectors
Some of the work undertaken by Umvoto in 2024 in the residential/commercial/industrial sectors includes:
- Groundwater development for school, housing and hospital developments, and continued groundwater monitoring at mines, estates, industries and developments in the greater Cape Town region.
- Groundwater specialist studies for regulatory compliance for proposed solar photovoltaic facilities in the Northern Cape and fuel stations/depots across the Western Cape.
- Groundwater specialist studies for flood alleviation in the Drakenstein Local Municipality.
- Residential water supply for housing developments and existing estates in the greater Cape Town, West Coast and Overstrand areas.
- Hydrogeological specialist studies for open pit mining in Namibia.
Hydrogeological investigations to determine feasibility of utilising spring flow as a source of non-potable water supply in South Peninsula of Cape Town.
GIS and Remote Sensing
This year, Umvoto’s GIS team engaged in a range of remote sensing projects that showcased the versatility and power of satellite imagery. One of the highlights was resource mapping in a remarkable Middle Eastern landscape characterised by expansive dunes and winding wadi systems. Our team utilised advanced satellite imagery to produce stunning false-colour composites, revealing intricate details of these diverse landforms. These visuals provided a striking and effective means of identifying areas of interest for further investigation.
The team explored mineral resource potential, offering critical insights for guiding agricultural development in arid regions. This dual focus underscores the ability of remote sensing technologies to inform both environmental and socio-economic initiatives. By integrating these techniques, we demonstrated how remote sensing can support mineral exploration and agricultural planning, contributing to sustainable development.
