This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 642224
In cooperation with UNESCO International Hydrological Programme (IHP), the countries of Namibia, Botswana, and South Africa jointly assessed the 87,000 sq. km. Stampriet Transboundary Aquifer System (STAS), which is the only reliable source of water in that area. Based on the assessment, the three countries have launched discussions to establish a multi-country consultation mechanism for identifying ways to jointly manage the aquifer. This consultation mechanism would be the first example of institutionalized transboundary aquifer cooperation in southern Africa. The model that will be developed within the framework of FREEWAT in straight collaboration with the Governments of Namibia, Botswana and South Africa will allow identifying knowledge gaps that still exist on various aquifer aspects, and will be crucial to decision-makers of the STAS countries for monitoring/managing the aquifer.
