In 2016 the founding partners, the NBI, WWF, GIZ, Mondi and Tongaat Hulett came together with key public and private sector role-players to formalise the uMhlathuze Water Stewardship Partnership (UWASP). Currently the Goedertrouw Dam that supports most of the catchment’s water requirements is at 49% capacity and water restrictions have lessened, but are still in place. UWASP has established a committee of agriculture and government authorities to collaborate in catchment monitoring and to support decision making regarding dam releases. This support, combined with efforts to strengthen strategic water governance, enhanced metering and an online water balance platform will further boost water security in the region. The inclusion of many of UWASP’s priority interventions in the City of uMhlathuze and Mhlathuze Water strategies for climate change adaptation and action is an encouraging move towards further collaboration. Please contact Michelle Hiestermann should you wish to learn more about the UWASP.
