We are pleased to announce that the first draft programme for the WISA 2026 Biennial Conference is now available.

This programme reflects the culmination of an extensive review process by the Technical Committee, bringing together a high-quality, diverse programme of presentations, workshops, and discussions that address the most pressing challenges and opportunities within the water sector. The programme showcases leading local and international expertise, with a strong focus on practical solutions, innovation, and sector collaboration.

WISA 2026 is shaping up to be a pivotal event for the industry. With increasing pressure on water and wastewater systems, and the urgent need for institutional, technical, and operational improvements, this conference provides a critical platform for engagement, knowledge exchange, and action.

With high demand expected, early registration is essential to secure your participation.

This is more than just a conference — it is an opportunity to be part of the conversations and solutions that will influence the future of water in South Africa and beyond.

Click here to view the Programme

Distinguished Keynote Speakers

Refilwe Buthelezi is a Professional Engineer (PrEng) and current President of the Federation of African Engineering Organisations (FAEO) as well as the first female President of the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA). She champions the Operational Technology function at Rand Water and is a Fellow of the South African Academy of Engineering (SAAE).

Wandile Sihlobo is South Africa’s Presidential Envoy on Agriculture and Land. He is also Chief Economist of the Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa (Agbiz). He is a Senior Lecturer Extraordinary at the Department of Agricultural Economics at Stellenbosch University. Sihlobo was appointed as a member of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Presidential Economic Advisory Council in 2019.

Leonardo Manus, Executive Director: Water and Sanitation for the City of Cape Town. He developed and executed innovations in water and sanitation management space, and most note-worthy incentive-based regulation Blue Drop and Green Drop programs during his time at Department Water & Sanitation.

Dr. Inga Jacobs-Mata brings over 15 years of dynamic leadership in water security and multi-level environmental governance, guiding transdisciplinary teams. Since her association with the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) in 2019 as the Country Representative for Southern Africa and Regional Representative for Southern Africa.