BY NONCEDO SHABANGU
MBABANE – The future of water security and regional economic growth took center stage as INMACOM Executive Secretary Ms. Sindy Mthimkhulu championed collaboration at the 11th SADC Multi-Stakeholder Water Dialogue. Hosted in Maseru, Kingdom of Lesotho, the two day event (September 29-30) served as a vital platform for policymakers, practitioners, and private sector leaders to align on critical issues.
Ms. Mthimkhulu’s keynote address, “Innovative Climate Resilient and Risk Informed Water Infrastructure Solutions Towards Trade and Regional Value Chains,” provided a clear roadmap for sustainable progress. She emphasized that INMACOM is not just planning new infrastructure but is specifically focusing on programs that can withstand climate shocks while actively boosting regional trade.
She underscored that the commission’s internal strength, its policy structure, regular technical engagements, and formal relationships with operators in member states is key to generating the necessary support for these vital water projects.
The core message centered on partnership. Ms. Mthimkhulu highlighted the crucial guidance provided by the Comprehensive Agreement and the Integrated Water Resources Management plan in managing the region’s limited water resources. She stressed that a multilateral, collaborative approach is the only way to tackle the pressing water management challenges facing the SADC community.
To meet the goals of SADC Vision 2050 and the Regional Industrialization Strategy, unlocking the potential of shared water resources is non negotiable.
The Executive Secretary pointed to several major infrastructure developments including the Empuluzi/Methula Off Storage Dam, the Mkhondvo, Ngwavuma project, and the Moamba Major Dam as immediate, high impact opportunities for multi stakeholder involvement.
According to Ms. Mthimkhulu, partnership is the “critical catalyst” needed to move these projects from concept to reality, ultimately fueling regional integration and robust economic growth across Southern Africa.
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Courtesy Pic)
