Three Southern African Development Community (SADC) member states – Eswatini, Mozambique and South Africa – have launched a six-year initiative to strengthen transboundary water management across the Incomati and Maputo river basins, which together support an estimated 3.4 million people.

Funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) with a grant of USD7.1 million and co-financing of USD64 million from the participating countries, the project aims to enhance water, food, energy and environmental security while promoting sustainable livelihoods. It will also support basin-wide and coastal zone planning, alongside efforts to mobilise investment.

The Incomati and Maputo river basins face increasing pressure from climate change, altered hydrological flows, unsustainable land and water use, pollution, and ecosystem degradation. These challenges pose significant risks to ecosystems, economies and communities across the three countries.

The Strengthening Integrated Transboundary Management of the Incomati and Maputo River Basins Project seeks to address these issues by strengthening the capacity of the Incomati-Maputo Watercourse Commission (INMACOM) SADC’s youngest river basin organisation while enhancing scientific knowledge and improving coordination among river basin, conservation and coastal management institutions.

The project is implemented by the Global Water Partnership Southern Africa, with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) serving as the GEF implementing agency, providing oversight and ensuring accountability throughout implementation.

The launch event, held at the Royal Villas Hotel in Ezulwini, was officiated by Minister of Natural Resources and Energy, HRH Prince Lonkhokhela, Minister of Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Hon. Jane Mkhonta-Simelane, and UNDP Resident Representative, Mr Henrik Franklin. Commissioners under INMACOM and stakeholders from the three member states also attended.

Speaking at the event, HRH Prince Lonkhokhela said the GEF-8 funding cycle was established to respond to the urgent global challenge of climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution.

“The world requires systems change rather than isolated interventions,” he said. “This project reflects an integrated approach that aligns economic development with environmental stewardship, recognising that human well-being depends on a healthy biosphere.”

Hon. Jane Mkhonta-Simelane underscored the importance of regional cooperation, noting that Eswatini, Mozambique and South Africa are working together through INMACOM to balance development needs with environmental protection.

“This cooperation ensures that our shared basins remain sources of life, prosperity and opportunity, while building resilience against floods, droughts and climate shocks,” she said.

UNDP Resident Representative Mr Henrik Franklin highlighted the project’s potential to unlock economic opportunities while addressing environmental risks.

“Healthy river basins are economic assets,” he said. “When managed sustainably, they support food systems, tourism, renewable energy, biodiversity conservation, community livelihoods and regional trade. They create the foundation for inclusive and resilient economic growth.”

Global Water Partnership Southern Africa Interim Executive Secretary Mr Andrew Takawira noted that the project is underpinned by strong political commitment, as demonstrated by the significant co-financing from the three countries.

“It was also developed through extensive consultations with key stakeholders across all three countries,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of the INMACOM Chairperson, Ms Duduzile Mthembu, Commissioner Mr Silo Kheva emphasised the importance of maintaining momentum during implementation. He outlined several key success factors, including strong institutional coordination, inclusive stakeholder participation, effective financial and project management, transparent monitoring and reporting, and continuous knowledge sharing.

“The success of this initiative will not be measured only by reports or meetings, but by the lasting impact it delivers for the people and ecosystems of the Incomati and Maputo river basins,” he said.

The project marks a significant step towards strengthening regional cooperation and integrated water resource management in Southern Africa, reinforcing the shared commitment of participating countries to build climate resilience, safeguard ecosystems, and unlock sustainable development opportunities across borders.