Communication Officer at Department of Water and Sanitation

Requirements

• A relevant NQF level 6 qualification as recognized by SAQA in communications, public relations, journalism, media studies, or a related field. Three (3) years’ experience in the public sector or environmental/water sector in the communication section.

Duties

• The Communication Officer plays a strategic role in promoting integrated water resource management. (IWRM), stakeholder participation, and transparent governance in line with national water sector priorities. To develop, coordinate, and implement internal and external communication strategies that enhance stakeholder engagement, promote awareness of water resource management issues, and support the mandate and programs, fostering understanding, building awareness, and creating a favorable perception of the Pongola-uMzimkulu Catchment Management Agency. Communication Strategy and Planning: Develop and implement the PUCMA Communication Strategy and plans aligned with the Catchment Management Strategy (CMS), Strategic Plan (SP), and Annual Performance Plan (APP); coordinate PUCMA events; create actionable plans for securing media coverage of events and initiatives; recommend amendments to existing policies to improve communication effectiveness; ensure communication supports key focus areas such as awareness campaigns in Water Allocation Reform (WAR), Water Quality Management, Climate Change Adaptation, Compliance Monitoring and Enforcement; and coordinate awareness campaigns (e.g., World Water Day, National Water Week, and other environmental days, etc.).
• Dissemination of Information and Stakeholder Engagement: Ensure timely and accurate dissemination of written and verbal communication materials to stakeholders; draft and send written invitations to stakeholders for PUCMA events; assist in crafting the strategic plan and budget management for the communication section; foster and maintain positive stakeholder relations; handle event logistics and venue management; update guest lists and maintain PUCMA calendars; facilitate communication between PUCMA and water users and other stakeholders such as Water User Associations (WUAs), local and district municipalities, traditional authorities and rural communities, farmers, industries, government departments, and NGOs; support public participation processes for water use license applications (WULAs) and other programs of the CMA; and assist in organizing community outreach programs and school awareness initiatives within the Water Management Area. Media and Public Relations: Draft media releases, speeches, internal and external newsletters, and stakeholder reports; manage media relations and respond to public/media inquiries; coordinate crisis communication during droughts, floods, pollution incidents, and water restrictions; and monitor media coverage and prepare media analysis reports.
• Digital Communication and Branding: Manage and update the PUCMA website and digital platforms; develop social media content aligned with government communication guidelines; design and distribute Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials; and ensure consistent corporate branding in line with government communication standards. Internal Communication: Develop internal communication tools to enhance staff awareness and cohesion; coordinate internal newsletters and staff engagement sessions; and support change management communication initiatives. Monitoring and Reporting: track communication performance indicators in line with APP targets; compile monthly, quarterly, and annual communication reports; and conduct stakeholder feedback surveys and communication impact assessments.