A young innovator from Thaba Nchu has developed a digital water monitoring system called Guardian of Every Tap aimed at helping municipalities improve water quality management and accountability.
Sello Daniel Selepe (28), an alumnus of the Central University of Technology, developed the system after being recruited by the Free State Provincial Government as part of a group of 59 engineers positioned to provide technical support to struggling municipalities across the province. While working at Nketoana Local Municipality, Selepe created the system to digitally record and analyse water samples, detect defects in real time, and help ensure that only safe water is distributed to communities.
Selepe explained that the innovation replaces outdated manual record-keeping methods previously used at treatment facilities. “Our institutions previously recorded water samples on a book which was not ideal because books can get lost. With this system, our data is now digitalised and is also able to determine water samples for you and inform you if the water is safe enough to consume or not. The system flags water samples according to the South African water standards,” he said.
Inspired by water contamination incidents in areas such as Hammanskraal and concerns around water quality in municipalities including Mantsopa Local Municipality, Selepe said he wanted to use science to improve living conditions in communities. “This development was not born out of perfect conditions.” He added, “It was born out of resilience and perseverance. I was determined to use science in a practical way to improve the living conditions of my people. I felt a duty to use my knowledge for the betterment of the people of the Free State. I wanted to create something that would outlast my time in the municipality.”
Growing up in difficult conditions in Thaba Nchu influenced Selepe’s passion for water management after spending years walking long distances to collect water for household use. He said the system also strengthens accountability among wastewater treatment officials. “It also ensures accountability because technicians are required to put their information in the system. It cannot be manipulated because it has an automatic time stamp,” said Selepe.
Compiled by Sibongile Selomane
