Growing populations and climatic impacts are placing unprecedented pressure on water resources. This is true of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region which comprises 16 Member States, whose population in 2018, was estimated to be at 345.2 million, a rise from 336.9 million as of 2017. Rivers play a pivotal role in the region's socio-economic development, as evidenced by its reliance on these waterways. Southern Africa boasts of 15 major transboundary river basins, shared among neighbouring countries, with 13 basins entirely within the region's borders. However, the equitable distribution of water resources remains a challenge, exacerbated by climatic factors influencing rainfall patterns and the geographical distribution of river basins. While these rivers can spark conflicts, they also serve as conduits for peace and cooperation. Therefore, prioritizing transboundary water cooperation is not merely about economic prosperity but also essential for nurturing stability and harmony throughout the region.
Experts from Member States, Transboundary Basin Organizations and Regional Organizations work together to build capacity and define strategic and operational actions to be implemented.
The Regional Initiative for Water and Sanitation in the Mono cross-border basin (RIWE-Mono) aims to restore ecosystems, improve the living conditions of people living along the river and promote concerted, sustainable management of natural resources, while strengthening cross-border cooperation between the two countries (Benin and Togo) that share this watercourse.
Chengdu, China | 15–23 May 2025 — Against rising global concern over climate-induced infrastructure challenges, the International Commission on Large Dams (ICOLD) held its 93rd General Assembly and 26th Congress was held. The event gathered over a thousand global experts, policymakers, engineers, and practitioners to examine the future of water infrastructure in an increasingly unpredictable world.
The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), the Volta Basin Authority (VBA) and the Global Water Partnership (GWP) West Africa have implemented the VFDM project entitled "Integrating flood and drought management and early warning for climate change adaptation in the Volta Basin" from June 2019 to June 2024. This project is financed by the Adaptation Fund.
The largest international gathering of water stakeholders, held every three years, the 10th World Water Forum - 'Water for Shared Prosperity' - will be held in Bali, Indonesia, from 18 – 25 May, as the culmination of a multi-annual political, thematic and regional preparatory process.
The Regional Forum on the theme: "Capitalization and scaling up of IWRM best practices for water security and population resilience in the WAEMU Space" took place from November 28 to 30, 2023 in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
GWP-Med has long experience in implementing corporate water replenishment projects, helping companies like Coca-Cola meet their water replenishment targets through focused interventions. These technical water saving solutions are part of integrated programmes which also engage stakeholders in effective water governance, raise awareness and promote environmental education. Several projects incorporating technical water saving solutions have also been implemented as pilot demonstrations through funding by public donors.
