A Woman's perspective

Keeping abreast with the 2022 World Water Day theme ‘Groundwater’, we examine Namibia's groundwater landscape. We have the pleasure of gaining insight from Ms. Reginalda Joseph a dedicated and experienced Geologist with 6 years in the groundwater industry.

Groundwater provides almost half of all drinking water worldwide, about 40% of water for irrigated agriculture and about 1/3 of water supply required for industry. It sustains ecosystems, maintains the base flow of rivers and prevents land subsidence and seawater intrusion according to United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Women, and particularly young girls, who shoulder the burden of bringing drinking water closer to home, are often key target beneficiaries of improved services.

An Industry View

Namibia has various sources of fresh water namely rivers, dams, ground water, fountains, seawater desalination and recycled water. The country has 5 perennial rivers and about 20 ephemeral rivers and 18 dams with the Neckatral being the largest. The country's groundwater resources are closely associated with the underground rock types that vary according to the geological structures that are unevenly distributed across the country. “Namibia only has a few favorable places where high volumes of groundwater can be sustainably abstracted” Said Ms. Joseph. The major aquifers in Namibia are located in: Karst, Otjiwarongo, Omaruru Delta (OMDEL), lower Kuiseb, Windhoek, Stampriet, Koichab and Ohangwena II.

However, Ms. Joseph believes that Namibia has efficient fresh water sources, that the groundwater Aquifers which most of the Namibian population depends on are currently efficient to support the growing population. Additionally, there are surface water sources such as dams, rivers and lakes, which are also largely used by the country's population. The country’s fresh water sources are sufficient in terms of quantity but in quality as well. “The Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform being the custodian of water resources in the country have invested in not only the management of water but also its sustainable use” Said Ms. Joseph

Industry Innovations

Ms. Joseph believes that Namibia has kept up to date with new innovations in the industry. This is evidenced through the functioning desalination plant in the coast as well as defluorination plant in the North of the country. In the country's capital the Windhoek Aquifer Artificial Recharge is being operated to replenish underground water. As well as the construction of dams to contribute to groundwater recharge such as the Omdel dam from the Omaruru river.

The country has also invested in remote groundwater monitoring technology such as Telemetry stations for better management.

Water as a Lifestyle

The one thing Ms. Joseph would like to see change about how Fresh water is used in Namibia is a heightened sense of water conservation not only in times of drought but as a lifestyle. “I would like to change the fact that people in Namibia wait for drought alarms in order to start using water sustainably.” Said Ms. Joseph She believes governmental and private entities should employ water saving campaigns as a daily reminder and not only during drought warnings. Water is a basic human need, required for drinking and to support sanitation and hygiene, sustaining life and health. The access to both water and sanitation are human rights. However, Ms. Joseph believes that water should also be viewed as a valuable economic resource. The availability of water runs an economy as all industries depend on water for business. “I believe it's crucial that [] industries invest in the sustainable use and management of water.” Said Ms. Joseph.

As to the Future of water in Namibia, Ms Joseph says that naturally as the country's population grows the demand on the water sources will also grow. In addition to climate change, unpredictable rainfall and the high evaporation rates of surface water, the need for stricter water control will become essential.

“I believe it's crucial that [] industries invest in sustainable use and management of water." MS. REGINALDA JOSEPH