Finding practical solutions to the critical challenges of water management and climate change in the Ngaka Moridi Molema District of the North West Province is the main purpose of a three-day symposium being hosted at the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus from 3 to 5 December.
“This symposium is about bringing people together to find practical, community-driven solutions,” says Dr Naledi Seheri from the Chemistry subject group and one of the event organisers.
“This exemplifies the university’s mission to address pressing environmental issues through academic and practical initiatives,” adds Prof Damian Onwudiwe, also from the Chemistry subject group.
The symposium is being organised by the NWU’s Nano Environment Incubation Programme and the office of the deputy dean for teaching and learning in the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, in partnership with the Water Research Commission and WaterNet.
The event, themed “Water and climate: Challenges and opportunities in the Ngaka Modiri Molema District”, will offer community leaders, researchers, policymakers and industry experts the opportunity to explore local water and climate issues through collaborative and innovative strategies.
The symposium will kick off on 3 December with a Water Research Commission stakeholder engagement session.
On 4 December, the Deputy Minister for Water and Sanitation, David Mahlobo, will deliver a keynote address to open the symposium, setting the stage for impactful discussions led by various speakers.
They will include Dr Jennifer Molwantwa, CEO of the Water Research Commission, who will discuss sustainable water management, and Prof Jean-Marie Onema, CEO of WaterNet, who will focus on human capital, drought management and lessons for water resources management in Mahikeng.
Prof Nnenesi Kgabi, director of the NWU’s Research and Postgraduate Support department, will highlight collaborative approaches to water security. Prof Sylvester Mpandeli, a leader in the Water-Energy-Food Nexus, will discuss system interdependencies affecting rural communities.
Furthermore, Thabo Hloele from Orange Senqu River Commission will focus on the Lesotho-Botswana Water Transfer Project, and Seriti Phate, chairperson of WASH Innovative Technologies, will speak about the Lesotho Water Partnership.
Key topics will include water resource management, climate adaptation, water conservation technologies and governance’s role in building water resilience. Interactive panels will feature representatives from the NWU, WaterNet, the Water Research Commission, the Magalies Water Board, the Department of Water and Sanitation, and the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism, among others.
Participants will have opportunities to network, exchange ideas and form partnerships, thereby strengthening the collaborative spirit necessary to tackle these challenges. Click here for more information on the symposium.
