ABOUT US

The Southern African Development Community Groundwater Management Institute (SADC-GMI) addresses the critical issue of climatic variability affecting over 70% of the SADC region’s population, who rely on groundwater for their livelihoods. By tapping into groundwater resources, SADC-GMI aims to enhance water security, support economic growth, and reduce vulnerability to climate change.

SADC-GMI serves as a “Centre of Excellence” for groundwater development and management, acting as a liaison with national, regional, and international groundwater initiatives. This ensures strategic groundwater management across the SADC region.

Water security is vital for economic stability and growth. SADC-GMI’s mandate includes helping Member States utilize groundwater resources to strengthen water security and improve the livelihoods of vulnerable communities. The SADC region, with its 16 Member States, heavily relies on groundwater due to inconsistent rainfall patterns, but only a fraction of available resources is currently utilized. Population growth, economic activities, and urbanization increase pressure on water sources, making groundwater essential for development and climate resilience.

Established in 2009, SADC-GMI promotes sustainable groundwater use and addresses regional challenges. With subsidiary status within the SADC framework, SADC-GMI is transitioning into a sustainable “Centre of Excellence.” The 2023-2028 Strategic and Financial Sustainability Plan focuses on advancing financial sustainability and maintaining SADC-GMI’s role in effective regional groundwater management.

As a “Centre of Excellence,” SADC-GMI leads and coordinates groundwater initiatives, aligning with SADC’s socio-economic and developmental objectives to ensure sustainable and resilient water management for the region’s future.