LocationsHistoric Milestone for Water Security in Southern Africa
Strengthening Water Security: Angola & Namibia Sign Landmark Agreement
May 16, 2024
CUVKUN ProDoc Signing at Angola-Namibia Bi-National Consultations: From Right to Left 1. Mr Pinto Vunge - UNDP Angola 2. Ms Ndiyakupi Nghituwamata - Executive Director and Namibia Co-Chair to CUVECOM & PJTC, MAWLR 3. Mr. Carolino Mendes- Director General & Angola Co-Chair to CUVECOM & PHTC, GABHIC 4. Mr. Silvanus Uunona
The Ministry of Energy and Water of Angola and the Ministry of Agriculture, Water, and Land Reform of Namibia, along with UNDP Namibia supported by UNDP Angola officially endorsed the project titled "Enhanced Water Security and Community Resilience in the Adjacent Cuvelai and Kunene Transboundary River Basins" project marks a crucial step forward in addressing the pressing challenges of water scarcity, floods, and droughts in the Cuvelai and Kunene River basins The Ministry of Energy and Water of Angola and the Ministry of Agriculture, Water, and Land Reform of Namibia, along with UNDP Namibia supported by UNDP Angola officially endorsed the project titled "Enhanced Water Security and Community Resilience in the Adjacent Cuvelai and Kunene Transboundary River Basins" The project, worth USD 11 167 890, marks a crucial step forward in addressing the pressing challenges of water scarcity, floods, and droughts in the Cuvelai and Kunene River basins and is expected to run from May 2024 until November 2029.
The project is funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) through UNDP, and it will be implemented by the Global Water Partnership Southern Africa (GWP-SA) in partnership with the Cuvelai Watercourse Commission (CUVECOM) and the Permanent Joint Technical Commission (PJTC). This initiative aims to enhance water security and community resilience across the Cuvelai and Kunene River basins, addressing the critical issues of water management and climate resilience in these regions.
The Cuvelai and Kunene River basins are vital to the livelihoods and well-being of the communities in Angola and Namibia. These basins face numerous challenges, including extreme variability in water availability, frequent floods, and droughts. The impact of climate change exacerbates these issues, threatening both water security and socio-economic development.
The project aims to enhance the sustainable management of these precious water resources through a collaborative, integrated approach. By leveraging the strengths of both countries, the project is poised to make significant strides in improving water governance, enhancing resilience, and ensuring sustainable development.
"Water security is a shared responsibility that transcends borders, shaping the future of entire regions."-John Cole
The signing of the Project Document is a testament to the commitment of Angola, Namibia, and their partners to work together towards a common goal of water security and community resilience. This project embodies the spirit of collaboration and innovation, bringing together stakeholders from various sectors to create lasting change.
As the project moves forward, it is expected to result in improved catchment management practices, enhanced water treatment and distribution facilities, and stimulated economic development and diversification. The project will also provide research opportunities, ensuring that the region is better equipped to address the challenges posed by climate change.
This historic moment is a celebration of the power of collaboration and the unwavering commitment of Angola, Namibia, and their partners to ensure a more water-secure and resilient future for the people of southern Africa.
"Water is critical for sustainable development, including environmental integrity and the alleviation of poverty and hunger, and is indispensable for human health and well-being."-United Nations
