In a compelling statement at the high-level session titled ‘Our Waters, Our Future: Transboundary Water Cooperation to Power Climate Resilience’ held in Slovenia, Namibia’s Minister of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform Calle Schlettwein highlighted the urgent need for transboundary water cooperation as an essential foundation for climate resilience and sustainable development in Southern Africa. Reflecting on Namibia’s longstanding collaboration with Angola, Schlettwein showcased how shared water resources can unite nations to overcome common environmental challenges, presenting a model for regional cooperation.
“Namibia and Angola’s cooperation on water management serves as an exemplary case of how collaboration can be transformative,” Schlettwein stated. Key initiatives, such as flood management in the Cuvelai-Etosha Basin, sustainable water use along the Okavango River, and the management of the Kunene River through the Calueque Dam and Ruacana Hydropower Station, are not only addressing immediate water security needs, but also fostering resilience to climate change.
These initiatives have improved water access, sustained agriculture and helped stabilise energy production, showcasing the long-term benefits of cooperative management.
Water scarcity
For many Namibians, access to water is not a guarantee. Communities along the Kunene and Orange rivers rely on these resources for agriculture, drinking water and livelihoods. Local farmers, particularly those in arid northern Namibia, have noted that water scarcity affects crop yields and livestock health, with downstream communities often impacted by upstream water use. “Our livelihoods depend on the water that flows through the Kunene. It’s not just a resource; it’s life itself,” a local farmer from the Omusati region remarked recently. Such personal stories highlight the real-world impact of shared water agreements, and the urgent need for regional cooperation to secure water resources for all.
Climate vulnerability
Namibia, one of the driest countries in sub-Saharan Africa, faces acute water scarcity issues, with an average annual rainfall of less than 350mm in most regions, and a reliance on transboundary rivers.
These rivers are critical lifelines for agriculture, urban water supply and ecological conservation. However, upstream over-utilisation has occasionally left these rivers dry, exacerbating Namibia’s already-fragile water security. Climate change has further intensified the need for resilient water management, as shifting weather patterns and prolonged droughts strain resources. Namibia’s challenges reflect those of many southern African nations, underscoring why transboundary cooperation is crucial.
The Senegal River Basin Model
Globally, successful transboundary water agreements offer valuable insights for Namibia. The Senegal River Basin, managed by the Senegal River Basin Development Organisation (OMVS), is a prime example. Shared by Guinea, Mali, Mauritania and Senegal, OMVS has enabled these countries to jointly develop infrastructure for irrigation, energy production and water management, creating mutual benefits and improving resilience (World Bank, 2018). This model illustrates how effective governance of shared resources can bolster regional stability, reduce poverty and enhance food security.
Namibia’s water security
Namibia has already taken significant steps toward securing long-term water access through projects and policy frameworks focused on sustainable water management. Beyond the collaborative efforts with Angola, Namibia is actively exploring rainwater harvesting, desalination initiatives and groundwater exploration to diversify its water sources. At various NamWater events, Schlettwein has emphasised the importance of these initiatives: “Securing water is not just about addressing today’s needs, but also ensuring a resilient future for our people.” By investing in infrastructure and conservation, Namibia aims to build a sustainable water supply that meets both present and future demands.
Beyond funding
While Schlettwein called on the global community for funding, he also urged for partnerships in technical expertise and knowledge-sharing. Access to cutting-edge water management technologies and insights from global experts would accelerate Namibia’s progress toward water security. Partnerships with organisations specialising in water technology, engineering and climate adaptation would strengthen local capacities, and enable the adoption of innovative solutions tailored to Namibia’s unique environment.
Role of water
Water is a vital resource that can drive both cooperation and conflict, depending on how it is managed. Schlettwein’s call for a Water Convention highlights the link between water management and regional peace. By establishing a rule-based framework, Namibia aims to promote stability, prevent potential conflicts and foster development within Southern Africa. The consequences of unequal water-sharing are evident in the ongoing tension between Ethiopia, Egypt and Sudan over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) on the Nile River. This project has raised concerns in Egypt and Sudan, where downstream reliance on the Nile is critical, illustrating how unilateral control over shared resources can destabilise regions. Namibia’s approach, centred on collaboration, demonstrates how water can be a tool for unity rather than division.
Urgency
With COP29 on the horizon, Schlettwein urged international stakeholders to prioritise water issues on the climate agenda, as climate change directly impacts the freshwater cycle. “Africa, and Namibia in particular, must not be forgotten on the global stage,” he asserted. His appeal is especially relevant, given that the United Nations predicts water demand in Southern Africa will outstrip supply by 2050. Global climate finance for water infrastructure, resilient agriculture and water-efficient technologies could help Namibia and neighbouring countries adapt to growing climate pressures and secure their water futures.
Shared responsibility
The message of cooperation resonates beyond government stakeholders. Environmental organisations, private sector investors and civil society all have roles to play in supporting sustainable water practices. By encouraging local communities to embrace water conservation, investing in water-efficient agricultural practices and supporting regional policy initiatives, stakeholders can collectively contribute to Namibia’s and Southern Africa’s water security. Schlettwein’s vision for Namibia rests on this inclusive approach, where everyone from farmers to corporate investors plays a part in creating a sustainable and resilient water supply.
Southern Africa
According to the Southern African Development Community (SADC), water demand in southern Africa is expected to increase by 3% annually, with urbanisation, agriculture and industrialisation driving this growth. By 2050, this demand is projected to surpass available resources by up to 40% (SADC, 2022). The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) further underscores that without adaptive water policies, climate change could reduce the continent’s overall water resources by 20% by mid-century. These figures highlight the urgency of Schlettwein’s message: sustainable water management is not just essential for today, but is critical to avoid future crises.
Schlettwein’s address underscores that shared water resources when managed optimally and equitably, offer opportunities for Namibia to strengthen its water security, socio-economic development and resilience. By fostering cooperation with neighbouring countries and engaging the international community, Namibia envisions a future
where water becomes a source of unity and resilience.
“The sustainable use of shared water resources is fundamental to securing a better future for Namibia and our region,” Schlettwein concluded, “ensuring that water becomes a source of unity and resilience in the face of climate challenges”.
This call to action extends beyond Namibia, urging regional and international partners to rally behind sustainable water management. As Schlettwein emphasised, it is a responsibility we owe to future generations, and a shared vision for a resilient, peaceful and prosperous southern Africa.
*Lot Ndamanomhata is a Public Management, Journalism and Communication graduate. This article reflects his views, and he writes entirely in his personal capacity.