This year's theme underscores the crucial role of transboundary water cooperation in fostering peace and sustainable development. Water is not only a vital resource for life but also a powerful instrument for promoting understanding, cooperation, and stability among nations.
The SADC region has 15 major river basins which are transboundary or watercourses shared by two or more countries. These shared water resources play a significant role in our socio-economic development. It is essential that we prioritise transboundary water cooperation to address common challenges and harness the potential of water for peace and prosperity. By promoting dialogue, collaboration, and joint management of shared water resources, we can build trust, enhance resilience, and reduce the risk of conflict over water.
Moreover, transboundary water cooperation offers numerous opportunities for promoting sustainable development, including improving access to water and sanitation, enhancing food security, and supporting economic growth. By leveraging water as a catalyst for cooperation and development, we can create a more peaceful and prosperous future for our region and beyond. We however continue to be thwarted by several institutional, technical, economic, social and environmental factors.
As parliamentarians, we have a critical role to play in advancing transboundary water cooperation through advocacy, legislation, and oversight. We must support initiatives that promote dialogue and collaboration among riparian states, strengthen institutional frameworks for water governance, and ensure the equitable and sustainable management of shared water resources.
On World Water Day 2024, let us reaffirm our commitment to leveraging water for peace and sustainable development in the SADC region. By working together, we can harness the power of water to build bridges, promote understanding, and create a brighter future for all.
Yours faithfully,
Boemo SEKGOMA (Ms)
SECRETARY GENERAL
STATEMENT FROM THE SECRETARY GENERAL OF THE SADC-PF ON WORLD WATER DAY
