Research

Call for climate-smart cattle breeding to promote food security

MARELIZE SANTANA — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 08:10:15 +0000

Call for climate-smart cattle breeding to promote food security MARELIZE SANTANA Tue, 04/29/2025 - 10:10

By Gofaone Motsamai

Heat stress is among the most urgent climate-related challenges affecting beef cattle productivity, requiring South African cattle breeders to adopt climate-smart strategies to bolster food security under changing environmental conditions.

“Heat stress is becoming a major threat to livestock productivity,” said Prof Giel Scholtz of the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) in an online guest lecture hosted by the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences on 24 April 2025.

Prof Scholtz is a specialist researcher in applied animal breeding at ARC Animal Production and a researcher focused on sustainable livestock systems.

He explained that when humidity levels rise above 80%, the temperature threshold for heat stress in beef cattle drops from 30°C to 27°C. This heat stress reduces feed intake, delays growth, impairs fertility and affects meat quality.

Heat stress can also lead to reproductive inefficiency in both male and female cattle, Prof Scholtz said. “If the temperature goes above 27°C, semen quality decreases and some sperm die. It takes eight weeks for new sperm to be formed, meaning even one day of extreme heat can influence bull fertility.”

He presented data showing how indigenous breeds such as the Afrikaner and Nguni are more resilient than exotic breeds. “In 2015/16, the hottest and driest year recorded, Angus and Simmental types showed a 70% decrease in growth rate during heat waves, while the growth rate of Afrikaner and Nguni only dropped by 9%.”

The importance of feed efficiency under climate pressure was also raised. “We saw bulls eating less but weighing more, probably due to increased water intake,” he noted. “Nguni bulls increased water intake by up to 50%, while the Afrikaner bulls did not change their water intake at all.”

Prof Scholtz stressed the importance of using indigenous or adapted breeds for future breeding strategies. “Our indigenous breeds are our heritage for food security,” he said. “They are better adapted to survive and reproduce under harsh environments.”

He concluded the lecture by calling for new breeding priorities focused on smaller body size, lighter hair colour, darker skin pigmentation and the effective use of crossbreeding. “We need animals that are resilient, that recover quickly, and that can bounce back after extreme climatic events.”

Prof Giel Scholtz

Researchers explore the environmental impact of HIV-ARVs on South Africa’s water systems

MARELIZE SANTANA — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 12:12:14 +0000

Researchers explore the environmental impact of HIV-ARVs on South Africa’s water systems MARELIZE SANTANA Fri, 04/04/2025 - 14:12

By: Gofaone Motsamai

NWU researchers have completed a groundbreaking study that sheds light on the environmental implications of antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) in South Africa’s water resources. The report, “Quantification, fate, and hazard assessment of HIV-ARVs in water resources”, was submitted to the Water Research Commission (WRC) and is the most comprehensive study to date on the issue.

The research was conducted by the NWU’s Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management and the Africa Unit for Transdisciplinary Health Research. The team of experts included Prof Suranie Horn, Prof Rialet Pieters, Prof Henk Bouwman and Prof Petra Bester, among others. Their collaborative effort combined expertise from environmental, health and social sciences to address this pressing issue.

The study revealed significant concentrations of ARVs in water sources, particularly downstream of wastewater treatment plants. The drugs most frequently detected were lopinavir and efavirenz, with concentrations at some sites far exceeding global norms. This is attributed to South Africa’s large-scale HIV treatment programme, the most extensive of its kind worldwide.

The research highlighted alarming effects on aquatic ecosystems and wastewater management systems. Freshwater snails exposed to ARVs exhibited altered embryonic development, while bacteriophages – viruses critical to controlling bacteria in wastewater treatment – were significantly impacted.

Such disruptions could lead to bacterial bloom and reduced water quality. The report noted: "The consumption of any type of exogenous drug by any organism in sufficient quantities may intervene with the regulation of metabolic systems and bring about adverse effects. The presence of antiretrovirals in water can be considered a hidden or latent risk."

Further, the study highlighted the potential risks for human health: "Humans are also exposed to these compounds via drinking water, and at concentrations exceeding calculated hazard quotients. Although not found in this study, humans and other organisms may potentially ingest antiretrovirals and their breakdown products via aquatic organisms such as fish."

The team employed state-of-the-art analytical methods, including liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry, to quantify ARV levels in water. Their work also involved biological assays to assess the toxicological impacts of ARVs on non-target organisms and hazard assessments to evaluate risks to human health.

The findings

The study found that concentrations of ARVs in some water sources exceeded acceptable thresholds, posing potential long-term health risks to humans. The research team emphasised that current wastewater treatment processes are inadequate for removing these bioactive compounds, highlighting the need for technological advancements.

The report presented to the WRC includes several key recommendations. These include developing regulatory guidelines for ARV concentrations in water, improving wastewater treatment technologies, and conducting further research to understand the long-term ecological and human health impacts of these pharmaceuticals. In addition, the team advocates a multidisciplinary approach to address the intersections of public health and environmental sustainability.

This research marks a pivotal step in addressing the environmental consequences of pharmaceutical pollution. By documenting the unintended impacts of ARV treatments, the team has provided critical insights to policymakers and environmental scientists. Their work underscores the importance of balancing the need for widespread HIV treatment programmes with the necessity of protecting South Africa’s water resources and ecosystems.

This study sets a benchmark for future research, placing the NWU at the forefront of addressing environmental challenges linked to public health initiatives.

Indigenous agricultural practices promote food security

MARELIZE SANTANA — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 12:09:05 +0000

Indigenous agricultural practices promote food security

by Oscar Mosiane

MARELIZE SANTANA Fri, 04/04/2025 - 14:09

Although indigenous agricultural practices play a major role in enhancing food security in local communities, they are still undervalued, overlooked and regarded as old fashioned. A master’s student at the NWU is conducting research that could help to give indigenous agricultural practices a place in the sun.

Thato Hazel Seemise, a master’s student in indigenous knowledge systems at the Mahikeng Campus, is studying the indigenous agricultural practices used to enhance food security among the Batswana of Moruleng in the North West province.

Since food security (having access to an adequate amount of nutritious food) is a basic need, Thato says that understanding indigenous knowledge associated with indigenous agricultural practices is fundamental to promote food security at household level.

These practices have the potential to gear the agricultural sector towards sustainable agricultural production, which promotes at least three United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These are SDGs 1 (No poverty), 2 (Zero hunger) and 12 (Responsible consumption and production).

“Indigenous agricultural practices are significant for small-scale farming worldwide, as they are crucial in guaranteeing food abundance, community well-being and economic benefit,” Thato says.

She further adds that regardless of the challenges, indigenous agricultural practices remain the shield in preventing food insecurity within the Bakgatla-Ba-Kgafela in Moruleng.

“Documenting, disseminating and recognising these practices deserves special attention. There is a need for policymakers to stimulate the utilisation of indigenous agricultural practices and acknowledge their contribution to the agricultural sector.”

Thato Hazel Seemise

Albertina Sisulu Research Chair will continue to shine its light on nursing

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 07:34:48 +0000

Albertina Sisulu Research Chair will continue to shine its light on nursing

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 03/25/2025 - 09:34

In a nod to the North-West University’s (NWU’s) outstanding research abilities, the Albertina Sisulu Research Chair in Nursing Science has been upgraded by the National Research Foundation (NRF) and will continue for another five years under the South African Research Chairs Initiative (SARChI).

The SARChI extension followed a successful evaluation process in which the chair, led by Prof Siedine Knobloch Coetzee, underwent a two-phase peer review. Independent experts assessed the chairholder’s report and supporting documents, after which an evaluation panel, composed of researchers from multiple disciplines, deliberated on the findings. The panel recommended continued funding.

The NRF also upgraded the chair’s status to Tier 1, a designation for researchers with international recognition in their field.

Prof Jeffrey Mphahlele, the NWU’s deputy vice-chancellor for research and innovation, says the chair’s upgrade underscores its contributions to the university’s research output.

“This achievement strengthens the NWU’s standing in health sciences research. It is a testament to the work being done to advance nursing science and train researchers who will shape the future of the field.”

The NRF has emphasised the importance of institutional support in ensuring the chair’s long-term sustainability and the NWU is expected to provide resources to sustain the chair’s impact beyond the current funding cycle.

The SARChI programme, launched in 2006 by the Department of Science and Technology and managed by the NRF, aims to grow South Africa’s research capacity by retaining top scholars and generating new knowledge. The initiative supports public universities, research councils and national research facilities with a focus on scientific advancement and transformation in the knowledge economy.

Prof Siedine Knobloch Coetzee

Research and Innovation Colloquium showcases NWU’s commitment to multidisciplinary collaboration

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 06:52:06 +0000

Research and Innovation Colloquium showcases NWU’s commitment to multidisciplinary collaboration

by Belinda Bantham

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 03/18/2025 - 08:52

“To expand beautiful ideas of working together across disciplines.” These were the words of Professor Jeffrey Mpahlele, deputy vice-chancellor for Research and Innovation at the North-West University (NWU), as he captured the essence of the university's Research and Innovation Colloquium that was held at Sun City from 02-04 March 2025.

The colloquium began on Sunday evening with a reception and networking dinner hosted by the NWU principal and vice-chancellor, Professor Bismark Tyobeka. This opening event provided a platform for academics and industry leaders to engage in discussions about the pivotal role of research in driving societal transformation and promoting sustainable development.

Over the course of two days, various faculties from the NWU showcased their research initiatives, all aligned with the colloquium’s central theme: Research and Innovation for Society and Sustainable Development: Embracing Inter-, Multi- and Transdisciplinary Approaches and Industry Partnerships. This platform highlighted the university's commitment to making a meaningful social impact, fostering international collaboration, and advancing sustainable growth.

The programme directors for the first day were Prof Nnenesi Kgabi, chief director of Research and Postgraduate Support, and Dr Mathew Moyo, chief director of Library and Information Services. The day commenced with a presentation from the Faculty of Health Sciences, themed From Laboratories to Communities: Multidisciplinary, Transdisciplinary and Sustainability Challenges in Health Sciences Research. This session emphasised how the faculty’s research extends beyond the confines of laboratories to address real-world health challenges.

Next, the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences presented their session, titled Creating Futures: Bold Ventures in Multi- and Trans-Disciplinary Research, outlining the faculty’s forward-looking approach to research that anticipates future economic and management trends.

Following this, the Faculty of Law, Faculty of Education, Faculty of Engineering and Faculty of Theology delivered presentations centred on Faculty Themes on Fostering Multidisciplinary and Transdisciplinary Research and Innovation, underlining their combined efforts in driving research to address societal challenges.

A highlight of the first day was an insightful presentation by Prof Anne Verhoef, director of the NWU Artificial Intelligence Hub, titled Research in the Era of AI. Prof Verhoef provided a thought-provoking assessment of how artificial intelligence reshapes the research landscape.

The second day, led by programme director Mrs Bibi Bouwman, began with presentations from the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences and the Faculty of Humanities, also centred on Faculty Themes on Fostering Multidisciplinary and Transdisciplinary Research and Innovation

Following this, Dr Janine Chantson facilitated a session titled Innovations for Shaping a Sustainable Tomorrow: Aligning Research to Market Needs, which explored the importance of tailoring research outcomes to meet real-world demands. In her closing remarks, Dr Chantson stated, “The most exciting things that lie ahead will happen at the intersection of our different fields.”

The TTIS (Technology Transfer and Innovation Support) segment featured presentations such as Leveraging on NWU Enterprises and From Campus to Community: Technology and Knowledge Transfer for Societal Impact, delivered by Dr Andrew Bailey, acting director of Research Contracts and Innovation at the University of Cape Town. This session emphasised the university’s role in transforming research into tangible community benefits.

In addition, topics such as The Role of Universities in Innovation-Driven Industrial Development and the importance of intellectual property were explored, including a deep dive into the National Intellectual Property Management Office and the Intellectual Property Act.

The colloquium concluded with remarks from Prof Jeffrey Mpahlele, who congratulated all the faculties and presenters on their insightful contributions. He expressed his pleasure at seeing the faculties extending offers for collaboration, stating, “This will expand the NWU’s international footprint.”

NWU Research and Innovation Colloquium kicks off with a networking dinner

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 09:18:11 +0000

NWU Research and Innovation Colloquium kicks off with a networking dinner

by Belinda Bantham

BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 03/03/2025 - 11:18

The Research and Innovation Colloquium of the North-West University (NWU) commenced in Sun City last night with a reception and networking dinner hosted by the university’s principal and vice-chancellor, Professor Bismark Tyobeka. The event brought together academics and industry leaders to discuss the strategic role of research in driving societal transformation and sustainable development.

Mr Clement Manoko, the NWU's executive director of Corporate Relations and Marketing, served as the programme director for the evening. In his opening remarks, he expressed hope that the research outcomes shared during the colloquium would have a tangible impact on communities.

The deputy vice-chancellor for Research and Innovation, Professor Jeffrey Mphahlele, explained the purpose of the gathering, expressing his delight that this event was finally taking place. He emphasised that he eagerly anticipated the knowledge exchange that would take place over the coming days. During the event, attendees were also treated to a video showcase highlighting selected NWU research and innovation successes across various research entities.

In a keynote address, Professor Tyobeka reaffirmed the NWU’s commitment to nurturing research excellence that not only advances academic knowledge but also addresses pressing societal challenges. He underlined the university's diverse research ecosystem, which includes nine research chairs, eight hosted research entities – five of which are centres of excellence – 11 research units, 19 research focus areas, and eight research niche areas.

"Our research and innovation initiatives are strategically aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)," Professor Tyobeka noted, adding that the NWU has implemented impact measurement frameworks to track its contributions towards sustainable development and social justice. These frameworks ensure that the NWU's research efforts translate into measurable benefits for communities, industries and policymakers alike.

In her address, Dr Ndivuhwo Luruli, chief strategist from the National Research Foundation (NRF), encouraged academics to take advantage of the numerous funding opportunities available, urging them not to limit their aspirations. She emphasised the importance of partnerships in driving research excellence and transforming lives.

Over the next two days, various NWU faculties will present their research initiatives, all centred on the colloquium’s theme: Research and Innovation for Society and Sustainable Development: Embracing Inter-, Multi- and Transdisciplinary Approaches and Industry Partnerships. The discussions are set to deepen the university's commitment to meaningful social impact, international collaboration and sustainable growth.

Kicking off the NWU Research and Innovation Colloquium, vice-chancellor Professor Bismark Tyobeka hosted a networking dinner at Sun City.

Student participates in Russia-Africa media collaboration

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 31 Jan 2025 06:18:20 +0000

Student participates in Russia-Africa media collaboration BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 01/31/2025 - 08:18

By Tiyiselani Precious Miyambu

Gofaone Motsamai, a master’s student with the Indigenous Language Media in Africa (ILMA) research entity at North-West University’s (NWU) Mahikeng Campus, has applauded resolutions taken at International Media Forum for Young Practitioners: Russia-Africa.

The forum, hosted at the People’s Friendship University of Russia (RUDN) Institute of World Economy Business Hall in Moscow, gathered more than 200 registered participants, with about 150 attending in person. Attendees represented more than 20 countries, including South Africa, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Russia, Cameroon, Egypt, Tanzania and Uzbekistan. The theme of the forum was “Through the prism of education and communications”.

Gofaone took part in a roundtable discussion on media literacy as an instrument for combating disinformation, highlighting the role of agenda-setting in South Africa’s national media systems and explained how media influences public perception, shaping societal narratives.

“Media literacy is a crucial tool for combating fake news and stereotypes,” he noted. “We must advocate for comprehensive educational campaigns that equip audiences with critical evaluation skills.”

He described the forum as a platform for fostering deeper collaboration between media professionals from Russia and Africa. “Participants engaged in forward-looking discussions aimed at strengthening partnerships between Russian and African media outlets,” he said. “These included proposals for mutual training initiatives, cultural exchanges, and addressing stereotypes that undermine accurate portrayals of both regions.”

The event also featured a masterclass on the second day, where technologies like virtual reality and 360-degree filmmaking were explored for their potential to modernise storytelling and preserve cultural heritage.

Key outcomes of the forum included resolutions to promote the teaching of African languages in Russian schools and the introduction of Russian language education in

African institutions, furthering two-way cultural exchanges. Highlighting these resolutions, Motsamai said: “The promotion of African languages in Russian schools and the teaching of Russian in African institutions are significant steps toward strengthening cultural ties and mutual understanding. Initiatives like these pave the way for deeper collaboration and cultural exchange between our regions.”

He also applauded the recognition of the Sputnik Africa project for amplifying African voices through the use of native languages in media. “Projects like Sputnik Africa play a vital role in ensuring diverse African narratives are heard globally. By incorporating indigenous languages, they reflect the true richness of African societies.”

Reflecting on the experience, he said that the forum has reinforced the importance of collaboration across borders in tackling global media challenges. “It was inspiring to witness collective efforts aimed at empowering media practitioners to combat disinformation and promote cultural understanding.”

Gofaone Motsamai.

NWU hosts 33rd SAARMSTE International Conference

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 12:35:44 +0000

NWU hosts 33rd SAARMSTE International Conference

by Steve Maphakathe

BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 01/24/2025 - 14:35

The North-West University (NWU) hosted the 33rd annual conference of the Southern African Association for Research in Mathematics, Science, and Technology Education (SAARMSTE) on the Potchefstroom Campus from 13 to 16 January 2025.

This international conference, hosted in collaboration with the North West SAARMSTE chapter, was aimed at promoting research to improve and develop Mathematics, Science, and Technology Education (MSTE) programmes in response to current and future needs.

The theme of the conference was Adapting to a changing landscape of STEAM education in the era of artificial intelligence, and it featured delegates from the African continent, the USA and Australia.

During his welcome address, the president of SAARMSTE, Dr Million Chauraya from the Midlands University, emphasised that the conference was expanding and attracting international collaborators.

In turn, the deputy dean of Teaching and Learning from the Faculty of Education at the NWU, Prof Maryna Reyneke, stated that teachers have the responsibility to redefine how they engage with education and learning environments.

Prof Nnenesi Kgabi, chief director of Research and Postgraduate Support at the NWU, commended SAARMSTE for creating a sense of community among researchers. She further stated that “AI is a technology that should be welcomed rather than viewed as a threat. It is our responsibility as researchers to minimise the negative effects of this technology.”

Strategies that will shape the future of STEAM education

Throughout the four-day conference, several keynote speakers contributed their perspectives to the discussions around mathematics, science and technology education.

Chief research expert Dr Nazeem Mustapha conducted the first plenary address. He discussed the South African profile of artificial intelligence (AI) in science, technology, and innovation (STI). Prof Katie Makar from the University of Queensland then spoke about data science education, focusing on how it may be utilised to get primary school learners ready for the rapidly evolving world.

Prof Joseph Krajcik from Michigan State University stressed the need for feedback and explained how to use knowledge-in-use assessment activities in classrooms to encourage learning.

The fourth plenary was delivered by Prof Martin Braund, research associate at the Nelson Mandela University. The title of his presentation was The Arts and Sciences – Crossing the “Great-Divide”. He discussed three themes: creativity expanding scientific (STEM) thinking, the human brain-arts-science thinking, and arts-science collaboration.

Dr Chauraya acknowledged the plenary speakers' contributions and said the theme of the symposium was echoed in their discussions. Reflecting on the successful conference, Dr Chauraya stated: “It was a well-organised conference – I was impressed by the reception. The local leadership fully supported it. Thank you to the North-West University community, the ushers, the sponsors, and everyone who helped organise this conference and made it a success.”

The SAARMSTE choir provided a musical item at the closing ceremony and gala dinner held at The Roots, with the programme being directed by Dr Sonto Mthembu-Mwamwenda and Mr Lucky Ncala.

Musical group Setswana sa Nyelela blessed the audience with an outstanding performance during their opening and welcoming ceremony.

Dignitaries at the 33rd annual SAARMSTE conference on the Potchefstroom Campus.

The plenary sessions built capacity and fostered collaboration among researchers.

The president of SAARMSTE, Dr Million Chauraya, during his welcoming address.

NWU symposium addresses water and climate challenges

EVASHNI JANSEN — Fri, 13 Dec 2024 16:56:56 +0000

NWU symposium addresses water and climate challenges

by Phenyo Mokgothu

EVASHNI JANSEN Fri, 12/13/2024 - 18:56

Nature-based solutions such as rainwater harvesting and infrastructure designed to withstand floods and other climate impacts were among the practical ideas raised at a recent two-day symposium on water management and climate change in the Ngaka Modiri Molema District of the North West Province.

Held at the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus on 4 and 5 December, the event brought together community leaders, researchers, policymakers and industry experts to discuss local challenges and identify innovative strategies.

It was organised by 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 (WRC) and WaterNet.

Dr Naledi Seheri from the chemistry subject group, who helped organise the event, emphasised its collaborative nature. “This symposium was about bringing people together to find practical, community-driven solutions.”

Leave no one behind

On 3 December, the WRC led a stakeholder engagement session to set the stage for discussions. On 4 December Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation David Mahlobo delivered the keynote address which emphasised the urgent need for innovative approaches to address South Africa’s water challenges.

“No community should be left behind in water, sanitation and development,” he said, highlighting the importance of inclusive governance and collaboration, as well as the potential to integrate technology, governance and climate-sensitive infrastructure into water management.

Deputy minister Mahlobo shared a success story of a school that received clean water through a system using solar energy, rainwater harvesting tanks and efficient sanitation solutions. “This project not only provided water for students but also supported the surrounding community.”

He urged stakeholders to explore nature-based solutions and to design infrastructure that could withstand floods and other climate impacts. The deputy minister also stressed the need for circular water systems and the separation of stormwater from wastewater to enhance sustainability.

Technology was another key focus of his address. He pointed to the potential of artificial intelligence and real-time data systems to improve water monitoring and disaster management. “With more cell phones than people in the country, these devices can be used as tools for empowering communities.”

Collaboration in action

The symposium featured interactive panels that tackled water resource management, climate adaptation, water conservation technologies and the role of governance in strengthening water resilience. Discussions included input from representatives of the NWU, WaterNet, the WRC, the Magalies Water Board, the Department of Water and Sanitation and the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism.

It concluded with recommendations for improving water security in the region by fostering partnerships, leveraging science and technology and keeping in mind the interconnectedness of water, energy, food and climate resilience.

The symposium also resulted in the signing of a memorandum of agreement (MoA) between the NWU and the WRC to address regional water challenges.

Dignitaries at the NWU’s Water and Climate Changes symposium.

WRC and NWU partner to address water and sanitation challenges

EVASHNI JANSEN — Fri, 13 Dec 2024 07:17:54 +0000

WRC and NWU partner to address water and sanitation challenges EVASHNI JANSEN Fri, 12/13/2024 - 09:17

By Gofaone Motsamai

The Water Research Commission (WRC) hosted a stakeholder engagement session on 3 December at the North-West University's (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus to tackle South Africa’s water and sanitation challenges.

The event brought together representatives from municipalities, water boards, academia and other stakeholder groupings to refine and implement the WRC’s new strategy.

Virginia Molose, head of stakeholder engagement at the WRC, explained the shift in the commission’s approach.

“Our previous engagements focused primarily on researchers and academics. While valuable, this approach had limitations. We are now moving toward a province-specific strategy that directly engages municipalities, water boards and communities to address their challenges,” she said.

The programme covered key topics such as water governance, the impact of extreme weather events, groundwater management and solutions for non-point source pollution.

Non-point source pollution is a contamination of our ground water, waterways and ocean that results from everyday activities such as fertilising the lawn, walking pets, changing motor oil and littering. The issue of non-point source pollution was a recurring theme, with participants emphasising the need for innovative strategies to address its diffuse and challenging nature.

A central focus of the engagement was fostering partnerships. The WRC is in discussions with the NWU to formalise a partnership agreement aimed at leveraging the university’s resources to address provincial water challenges.

“The NWU has the capacity to serve as a catalyst in this province. By working together, we can address local water and sanitation issues more effectively,” said Virginia. “There’s no need for municipalities and departments to struggle with these challenges while they have a university nearby that can provide research and innovative solutions.”

Stakeholders included representatives from Magalies Water, the Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality, the Municipal Infrastructure Support Agency, and the Institute of Municipal Engineering of Southern Africa. They emphasised the importance of collaborative governance and proactive measures.

Virginia concluded by stressing the WRC’s commitment to practical solutions. “We presented knowledge products, research reports and tools to equip stakeholders with actionable insights. The goal is not just to identify problems but also to collaboratively engage with solutions,” she said.

Various stakeholders from municipalities, water boards, academia, chieftaincy and others at the stakeholder engagement session.