The YPP is a SADC-GMI initiative designed to empower young professionals in the region by providing them with resources, knowledge, and skills necessary for effective engagement in water management. The program focuses on developing and fostering collaboration among emerging professionals in the water sector. The year 2024 marked the official launch of the programme and the development of a YP Strategy for the programme’s initiatives. Since its inception, the program has spearheaded several initiatives including hosting monthly webinars where Young Professionals are empowered on various seasonal topics within the Groundwater Sector. Additionally, SADC-GMI sponsored 11 young professionals to participate at the 6th SADC Groundwater Conference held in Maseru, Lesotho in November 2024.
SADC Groundwater Conference
It is crucial for the program to provide Young Professionals with opportunities and platforms to engage and influence the groundwater narrative. At the recent conference, 11 YPs had the chance to present on various topics related to groundwater resources and lead discussions during sessions. Their participation significantly contributed to shaping the discourse in the field.
Engaging Monthly Webinar Series for Young Professionals in Groundwater Management
During the year 2024, engaging monthly webinars were convened. The monthly webinar series provides a dynamic platform for Young Professionals (YPs) to share knowledge, share insights, and discuss groundwater management challenges in the SADC region and beyond. Each session features up to three presenters, including YPs and a guest speaker who adds valuable perspectives. To date, four successful webinars have been held, addressing themes such as sustainable groundwater management practices, urban groundwater management challenges, and groundwater quality assessment strategies. These sessions encourage knowledge sharing and foster collaboration on critical groundwater management issues.
YPP Programme: Building a Rewarding Career in Groundwater Management
The Young Professionals Program (YPP) initiative aims to help Young Professionals (YPs) establish rewarding careers in the groundwater sector by providing practical work experience through projects with the SADC Groundwater Management Institute (SADC-GMI). Notable projects include the Madimba City Drinking Water Supply Project and the Drinking Water Supply in Kimpungu, DRC, involving YPs Nazabini Mbanza Yannick and Nsakala Tanda Reddy Andy. These initiatives have significantly improved living conditions and resources for local communities while equipping the young professionals with invaluable skills during their implementation.
Bursary Scheme for YPs: Empowering Young Professionals in Groundwater Management
As part of the YPs Program, SADC-GMI has a bursary scheme aimed at supporting YPs from previously disadvantaged backgrounds. This initiative provides financial assistance for academic and research endeavours, enhancing expertise in groundwater management across the SADC region. To date, bursaries have been awarded to 11 YPs from universities including Namibia University of Science and Technology, University of Botswana, University of the Free State, University of Zambeze, and University of the Western Cape. Currently, five students are actively engaged in research, contributing to the improvement of groundwater management in the region.
Feedback from YPs who attended the 6th SADC Groundwater Conference
Thebeetsile Andy Olebetse – Botswana
Joining the Young Professionals Programme has empowered me to apply my skills toward the sustainable use and management of groundwater resources. This program has connected me with like-minded individuals who share similar goals in groundwater evaluation and management. I was privileged to present my work at both the 6th SADC Groundwater Conference and the monthly webinars, fulfilling a significant career milestone. I had the chance to engage with scholars from the SADC region, paving the way for future collaborations.
Diana Nehale – Namibia
Attending the 6th SADC GMI Groundwater Conference and participating in the Young Professionals Programme enriched my understanding of groundwater management in Southern Africa. The conference provided valuable engagement with experts, knowledge exchange, and innovative solutions to regional challenges. As a Young Professional, I networked with peers and mentors, engaged in capacity-building presentations, and contributed to discussions on sustainable governance. This experience enhanced my skills and inspired me to tackle water resource challenges across the SADC region.
Matlhogonolo L Mmese – South Africa
The SADC-GMI 6th Conference was an incredible opportunity for networking and learning from experienced groundwater professionals. I particularly appreciated the strong presence of young professionals who not only attended but also presented their insights, bringing a fresh perspective to the discussions. This was both inspiring and motivating, emphasizing our importance in the sector.
Dr Benjamin Kitambo – DRC
Attending the SADC-GMI Conference in Maseru, Lesotho, as part of the Young Professionals (YP) Programme was an enriching experience that enhanced my understanding of groundwater management in the SADC region. Interacting with diverse professionals young and old offered valuable insights into how scientific researchers contribute to sustainable groundwater resource management. These interactions not only expanded my professional network but also inspired innovative solutions to groundwater challenges in the region.
Alina Ndapewa Inekel’Omuwa Kadhila – Namibia
I am honoured to have attended the 6th SADC Groundwater Conference in Lesotho as a Young Professional, supported by the Cuvelai Watercourse Commission and Namibia Water Corporation. It was humbling to take on roles typically reserved for senior individuals, and I thank SADC GMI for including youth in water governance discussions. I had the privilege of being a panellist on how young professionals can assist in collaborative governance that integrates water resource management with peacebuilding. Thank you, SADC-GMI, for creating a platform that empowers young people to contribute meaningfully to our sector!
Mmakoena Rammutla
Attending the SADC GMI Conference was a significant experience, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges in tackling the groundwater crisis in the SADC region. Key insights included the region’s capacity to improve research and data quality regarding groundwater resources. As a young professional, the conference facilitated meaningful networking with various stakeholders in the water sector. Furthermore, it underscored the transformative role that effective groundwater management can play in promoting peace and collaboration among nations within the region.
Hilja Ndakola – South Africa
Attending the 6th SADC-GMI Conference was a transformative and game-changing experience. The event showcased collaborative efforts in sustainable water resource management within the SADC region, providing insights into innovative solutions and best practices. As a young professional, the invaluable opportunities to engage, share perspectives, and learn from seasoned experts significantly contributed to my personal and professional development.
Ilca António de Oliveira Nhandamo – Mozambique
Engaging in the Young Professionals Program provided a unique opportunity to collaborate with peers from various countries, enriching my understanding of the groundwater management challenges faced in the SADC region. My experience at the 6th SADC-GMI Conference further fuelled my motivation to pursue research and develop more effective tools aimed at sustainable groundwater management in Southern Africa, emphasizing the importance of innovative solutions in addressing these pressing issues.
Thandeka Ngobe – Kingdom of Eswatini
Attending the 6th Groundwater Conference was a valuable opportunity to connect with fellow young professionals who share an interest in groundwater management. The conference served as a platform for Young Professionals to present their research, including my study on “Transboundary Issues on Groundwater Management in Rural Areas: A Case Study in Eswatini.” Participation in panel discussions not only enhanced my communication skills but also increased my professional visibility.