CEO of Mhlathuze Water in Richards Bay Awarded Cum Laude Masters Degree

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"A Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction for Local Government: A Case Study of eThekwini Municipality", was the title of a Master of Administration study which earned Mr Mthokozisi Duze a cum laude pass.

Duze is currently the interim CEO at Mhlathuze Water, a water utility based in Richards Bay, however his permanent position is that of Deputy Director General responsible for Development and Planning at KwaZulu-Natal’s Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA). He has served COGTA at various levels as a Chief Director responsible for disaster management and a Chief Director responsible for Special Initiatives.

His research, under the guidance of UKZN’s Public Governance expert, Professor Purshottama Reddy, explored the methods to reduce risk or exposure of citizens to disasters. The study provides systematic steps and processes that should be followed in mitigation and risk profiling by communities as part of planning and involvement in decision making.

Disaster practitioners will benefit from the study as it will serve as a reference source towards developing systematic disaster risk reduction plans for most municipalities that may not have these.

Though he has served in senior positions in the public sector his passion for teaching is yet to be fulfilled. To realise this, he intends pursuing doctoral studies and exploring academia in a quest to impart knowledge and bridge the gap between theoretical and practical aspects of learning.

Duze thanked his two children and supportive wife for their encouragement throughout his studies. He also praised the support from UKZN saying: ‘The academic support system the UKZN has is second to none and it would be an honour to publish under my supervisor’s guidance and to enroll for a PhD at this Institution of visionaries.’

Commenting on his student Reddy said: ‘Mr Duze is highly motivated and extremely hard working. Despite the initial challenges of getting to the basics of the Discipline, he persevered and has emerged as an exemplary postgraduate student. I have encouraged him to pursue a doctorate.’

Hazel Langa