At the end of the second Africa Water Week (AWW), South Africa is to take over the Presidency of the African Ministers' Council on Water (AMCOW) against clearly defined challenges that need to be addressed by the continent. Lack of access to proper water and sanitation has a direct bearing on the public health, economies, and many human lives are now falling into much graver risk.
Out of fifty three (53) African countries, twenty six (26) are succeeding to provide water to the poor, whilst others lack adequate financial resources and policy planning. It is against this stark reality that South Africa's Minister of Water and Environmental Affairs, Buyelwa Sonjica will be required to offer leadership and guidance.
Urgently needed is the political will to act and the knowledge to move effectively and efficiently. A further challenges raised during AWW is the response of the international water community to the mounting challenges and pressure placed on shared waters which has, thus far, been inconsistent and inadequate.
The lack of proper governance and corruption in some African countries was also acknowledged as pressing issues with a direct bearing on access to water and sanitation. Another worrying factor was how institutions like big international mining companies played a negative role in some cases, more so when they are not properly regulated.
Implementation and partnerships became a central theme in conjunction with deliberations of AWW. These underscored the commitment to move from discussions to the delivery of tangible results. Some cases include:
* The signing of a R500 million water grant application between South Africa and the Netherlands.
* Italia's indication that it is considering supporting AMCOW's operations.
* European Commission's commitment of a further 200 million euros of in addition 500 million euros committed previously.
Reports reflected cases of communities in countries like Tanzania where there has been successful transfer of skills and upliftment on rural areas. Such were reflective of positive success stories that confirmed that communities with their government and other interest groups had the ability to turn around current weaknesses in water provision.
South Africa's term will be for two years and its Minister is considering resourcing her office to adequately respond to her functions as President of AMCOW on behalf of her country.
For further information:
Themba Khumalo
Media Liaison
Tel: 082 802 3432
E-mail: khumalot@dwaf.gov.za
Mava Scott
Chief Director: Communication
Tel: 082 411 9821
E-mail: scottm@dwaf.gov.za
Issued by: Department of Water Affairs
12 November 2009
