The launch of four catchment management agencies (CMAs) by water and sanitation minister Senzo Mchunu marks a significant achievement for water governance in South Africa, according to Janse Rabie, head of natural resources at Agri SA.
“This is a cause for celebration for all South Africans,” Rabie said.
CMAs are designed to decentralise water resource management away from national control. This aligns with the National Water Act (36 of 1998) and the National Water Resources Strategy, promoting more responsive decision-making and catering to water user needs at a regional level.
Agri SA applauds catchment management agencies
As outlined in chapter 8 of the National Water Act, CMAs are responsible for the comprehensive management of water resources within their designated water management areas (WMAs), including protection, use, development, conservation, and control. Collaboration between CMAs, all levels of government, water users, and local communities is essential for effective water management.
Under Mchunu’s leadership, the department of water and sanitation established CMAs for the Limpopo-Olifants, Vaal-Orange, Pongola-Umzimkulu, Mzimvubu-Tsitsikamma, Breede-Olifants, and Inkomati-Usuthu WMAs.
“The establishment of CMAs has been a key component of Agri SA’s water strategy for the agricultural sector,” said Rabie. “As the largest water user in South Africa, accounting for roughly 60% of national water consumption, agriculture has a vested interest in the responsible management of this vital resource.”
Agri SA and its members look forward to actively participating in the CMAs and commend the department of water and sanitation on this achievement. They extend their best wishes to the newly appointed boards and staff of the CMAs as they take on their critical roles.
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