The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS), in collaboration with the Water Research Commission (WRC), is hosting a pivotal dialogue focused on advancing water stewardship across the country.
The event aims to deepen understanding of the current policy landscape, assess the practice of water stewardship, and identify potential policy gaps to enhance water management along the entire water value chain.
This initiative seeks to foster a unified perspective among water sector partners, including government, private sector representatives, civil society (encompassing traditional leaders and community groups), and academia.
The dialogue will spotlight existing opportunities to bolster water stewardship, promote collaboration, and raise awareness of its critical role in sustainable water use. Key discussion points will address gaps in the current water policy framework and explore innovative approaches to strengthen management practices.
A significant focus of the conversation will extend to stewardship within water services, highlighted by the role of Community Water and Sanitation Forums. Active in over 60 municipalities nationwide, these forums introduce a unique dimension of stewardship, tackling pressing issues such as revenue collection challenges (including non-payment), infrastructure sabotage and theft, and the operational efficiency of Water Services Authorities. This aspect underscores the dialogue’s potential to address practical, on-the-ground concerns.
Stakeholders are optimistic that the outcomes will pave the way for enhanced policy development and cross-sectoral partnerships. The event, held at a yet-to-be-disclosed venue, is expected to draw experts and community leaders eager to shape South Africa’s water future. Updates on the dialogue’s findings and next steps will be shared as they emerge, marking a significant step toward resilient water governance in the region.
