Namibia, the driest nation in southern Africa, is intensifying its efforts to ensure water security as climate change and expanding industrial projects exert growing pressure on its limited water resources. Minister of Agriculture, Water, and Land Reform, Calle Schlettwein, underscored this imperative during the second Namibia Regional Water Symposium, held in Keetmanshoop, the capital of the Karas Region.
Addressing policymakers, industry leaders, and local stakeholders, Schlettwein stressed the critical need for sustainable water resource management. “Namibia, as we all know, is the driest country in southern Africa, where water is both a precious and scarce resource,” he stated. “Our reliance on groundwater, coupled with the unpredictable impacts of climate change, places us in a constant battle to ensure sustainable water supply for all.”
Namibia’s dependence on groundwater has long defined its water security challenges. Unlike many other nations with access to large surface water bodies, Namibia’s hydrological conditions necessitate stringent management and conservation strategies. These efforts are further complicated by the unpredictable effects of climate change, which have led to prolonged droughts and increasing variability in rainfall patterns.
The symposium, which brings together experts across sectors, is focused on water security, economic development, and sustainable resource governance. A significant concern raised during discussions is the surge in major industrial projects, particularly in the mining sector and the emergent green hydrogen industry in the Hardap and Omaheke regions. While these industries hold immense potential for economic growth and energy transition, their substantial water demands could exacerbate existing water shortages if not managed responsibly.
Schlettwein emphasized that industrial expansion must align with broader national sustainability goals. “We must work together to ensure that these projects align with our broader sustainability goals and that water remains available and safe for all,” he remarked. Such a balanced approach requires a synergy between governmental policies, corporate responsibility, and local community engagement.
The implementation of the Water Resource Management Act 11 of 2013, which came into effect in August 2023, marks a crucial step in Namibia’s water governance framework. This legislative framework seeks to provide a structured and legally binding approach to water management, ensuring that all stakeholders adhere to policies aimed at safeguarding long-term water availability. The Act introduces stringent regulations for water abstraction, conservation measures, and sustainable distribution, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to mitigating water-related risks.
A key aspect of Namibia’s water security strategy is the integration of technological innovations in water conservation and management. As part of broader adaptation measures, the country is exploring desalination projects, improved groundwater recharge systems, and advanced irrigation techniques to optimize water usage. Partnerships with international organisations and private sector players are also being pursued to enhance investment in water infrastructure and technological solutions.
Schlettwein underscored the necessity of collaborative efforts between government agencies, businesses, and communities. “Water security cannot be achieved by a single entity. It requires collaboration, innovation, and commitment from all of us,” he affirmed. By fostering a multi-stakeholder approach, Namibia seeks to ensure that its developmental ambitions do not compromise its water sustainability.
The three-day symposium serves as a platform for robust dialogue and strategic planning, bringing together policymakers, industry representatives, and local community members. Discussions revolve around the intersection of water security with economic policies, environmental protection, and social equity. Experts have called for the establishment of integrated water resource management systems that can accommodate industrial growth while preserving ecological balance and ensuring equitable access to water for all citizens.
As Namibia navigates its water security challenges, the outcomes of this symposium are expected to shape national policy direction. With climate change accelerating environmental unpredictability, the nation’s commitment to sustainable water management is not merely an option but an imperative. By implementing forward-thinking policies, leveraging technological advancements, and fostering cross-sector collaboration, Namibia aims to secure its water future while fostering economic resilience.
For further insights into Namibia’s water governance strategies, explore the official Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform portal.
