The new Catchment management agencies (CMAs) (Vaal-Orange, Pongola-Umzimkhulu, Mzimvubu-Tsitsikamma, and Limpopo-Olifants) will work alongside the existing Breede-Olifants and Inkomati-Usuthu CMAs.

CMAs are responsible for the planning, implementation and management of water resources. Secondly, they are tasked with coordinating the water-related activities of other water management institutions and water users within Water Management Areas (WMAs). CMAs are governed by Governing Boards (GBs) that are established by the Minister. The GB of a CMA must represent all of the stakeholders affected by water resource activities within the WMA, including local government.

“CMAs are not just organisations; they are the guardians of the most precious resource – water. Water is the essence of life. It flows through our rivers, nourishes our land and sustains our eco-systems and supports our livelihoods. However, in recent years, pollution, climate change, overuse and mismanagement has left many of our water systems on the brink of collapse. It is in this context that CMAs become indispensable,” says Dr Thava Kelly, chairperson, Pongolo–uMzimkhulu CMA.

The work of CMAs is multi-faceted and involves:

• Water quality monitoring
• Regulating usage
• Water conservation and demand management
• Restoration of degraded ecosystems
• Education of the public on conservation.

“Each of these tasks are critical in their own right, but together, they form a comprehensive strategy for safeguarding water resources,” adds Dr Kelly.

Decentralised approach

Dedicated to the sustainable management of water resources within a catchment area, CMAs are driven by the needs of the community in which they operate. The establishment of the four new CMAs is a step towards achieving the integrated water resources management (IWRM) principle of decentralisation of water resource management to local level and contribute to the transformation of the water sector.

The purpose of CMAs is to enhance decentralised decision-making and to involve stakeholders in managing water resources, in an integrated manner, at a local level.

“This decentralised approach makes sure that the unique challenges of each CMA are addressed with tailored solutions, taking into account each CMA’s individual characteristics” states Dr Kelly.

She emphasises the huge role that stakeholder engagement plays in creating an impactful CMA. “By bringing together government, environmental advocates, local communities and industries, the CMA fosters a collaborative approach to water management. Strategies must be adopted to ensure that all voices are heard and that solutions are equitable and sustainable.”

“Let us recognise the CMA as a beacon of hope, a pillar of sustainability with a mission to ensure the health and prosperity of communities for generations to come,” concludes Dr Kelly.