At a time when water infrastructure, service delivery and long-term water security remain high on South Africa’s national agenda, the Water Institute of Southern Africa (WISA) will bring together more than 2,000 professionals from across the water sector.

WISA will host its flagship Biennial Conference and Exhibition from 22 to 24 July 2026 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre under the theme, Rethinking Amanzi – Securing Our Future.

The conference will be officially opened by Minister of Water and Sanitation Pemmy Majodina, with Deputy Ministers David Mahlobo and Dr Jack Bloom also participating. Bringing together delegates from government, municipalities, academia, research institutions, engineering consultancies, utilities, the private sector and international water organisations, the conference will create a forum to exchange ideas, showcase innovation and build partnerships that support a more resilient water sector.

Collaboration critical to addressing water challenges

“The challenges facing South Africa’s water sector cannot be addressed by any one organisation alone,” says Dr Lester Goldman, Chief Executive Officer of WISA. “As pressures on our water resources continue to grow, collaboration across disciplines and institutions has never been more important. The WISA Biennial Conference provides a valuable opportunity for the sector to learn from one another and identify practical ways to improve water security and service delivery.”

Communities across the country continue to experience water shortages, ageing infrastructure requires significant investment and maintenance, and climate variability is placing increasing pressure on already constrained water resources. Against this backdrop, partnering and knowledge sharing are essential to developing practical, long-term solutions.

A platform for practical solutions and innovation

Over three days, the event’s programme will explore a broad range of issues shaping the future of water management in Southern Africa, including climate resilience, infrastructure renewal, water reuse, digital innovation, groundwater management, wastewater treatment, governance and skills development. The programme also includes policy discussions, research presentations, workshops and dedicated sessions for Young Water Professionals, recognising the importance of developing the next generation of water leaders.

“The expertise, innovation and commitment needed to improve South Africa’s water future already exist within the sector,” Goldman says. “Our collective challenge is to accelerate implementation and ensure that good ideas translate into meaningful impact.”

The conference will also provide an opportunity for stakeholders from across the public and private sectors to engage on emerging trends, technologies and policy developments influencing the future of water management in South Africa and across the continent.

Event details

• Event: WISA Biennial Conference and Exhibition 2026
• Theme: Rethinking Amanzi – Securing Our FutureDate: 22–24 July 2026
• Venue: Cape Town International Convention Centre, Cape Town
• Register here: https://scatterlings.eventsair.com/wisa-2026-biennial-conference/wisacomp