In an exciting development for South Africa’s water management narrative, the Orange-Vaal Water Users Association has made history by becoming the first irrigation structure in the country to receive the prestigious World Heritage Irrigation Structure (WHIS) designation. This momentous recognition was announced by the Minister of Water and Sanitation, Pemmy Majodina. The award was handed over during the 9th Asian Regional Conference of the International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID) in Sydney, Australia, marking a significant milestone for South Africa.
The Douglas Weir, a remarkable 134-year-old engineering marvel, serves as a pivotal point for irrigation-led rural development in the Northern Cape. Minister Majodina highlighted the cultural, historical, and technological significance of the Douglas Weir, showcasing it as a beacon of innovation in water management that has transformed the region. “The award acknowledges the weir’s role as an irrigation structure that has significantly contributed to local agriculture,” she stated, emphasizing its impact on rural communities.
According to the ICID’s official documentation, the Douglas Weir is recognized as the world’s oldest irrigation structure, a designation that brings honor not just to the infrastructure but to the people of Douglas as well. Professor Sylvester Mpandeli, the ICID vice-president and chairperson of the South African National Committee on Irrigation and Drainage (SANCID), officially accepted the award on behalf of South Africa, showcasing the collaboration and dedication behind this achievement.
As part of a broader strategy to leverage this international recognition for local community development, Minister Majodina called for collaborative efforts to turn the Douglas Weir into a hub of innovation for water and sanitation projects. She envisions “innovative structures that will upgrade the supply of water and dignified sanitation to local people.”
Furthermore, the government is committed to enhancing the local infrastructure with a recent R28 million revitalisation project for the Douglas Water Treatment Works (WTW). This refurbished plant now has the capacity to provide 7 ML/day of purified water to over 22,180 residents, a significant improvement from its previous capacity. Northern Cape Premier Zamani Saul highlighted that over 84.4 percent of households now benefit from safely managed sanitation, reflecting a positive trajectory in regional water provision.
Importantly, both Majodina and Saul recognized the hard work and contributions of local farmers, communities, and the Orange-Vaal Water Users Association as essential players in achieving water security in a province historically challenged by water scarcity. They emphasized that the WHIS award not only celebrates the past but also paves the way for future technological advancements and economic growth for the region.
This recognition positions the Douglas Weir as a vital component in South Africa’s agricultural landscape and community empowerment, ultimately fostering sustainable development.
Stay tuned for more updates on how this historical designation will shape the future of water management and community initiatives in the region.
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