USGS officials visited Namibia and Botswana from September 10-27, 2024, to evaluate water security challenges under the U.S. Ambassador’s Water Experts Program. The discussions focused on potential support in understanding water availability, enhancing hydrologic monitoring networks, and collaboratively developing solutions to manage water resources amid severe drought conditions.
During September 10-27, 2024, officials from the United States Geological Survey (USGS) conducted an assessment of water security challenges faced by Namibia and Botswana as part of the U.S. Ambassador’s Water Experts Program (AWEP). This initiative, managed by the Department of Interior International Technical Assistance Program (DOI ITAP) and supported by funding from the U.S. State Department, aims to address critical water resource issues in these semi-arid regions experiencing severe drought. The USGS team, comprised of Science Advisor John Lane and Hydrologic Networks Branch Chief Molly Wood, engaged with diverse stakeholders within the water sector of both nations. Their discussions included officials from governmental ministries, bulk water suppliers, municipal utilities, multinational water commissions, private sector consultants, and representatives from the U.S. Embassy. Given the pressing need for sustainable water resources for drinking, livestock, mining, and industrial use, both Namibia and Botswana expressed a desire for technical assistance to enhance their understanding of existing water resources. Key areas of focus included leveraging remote sensing datasets to gain insights into water availability, improving hydrological monitoring networks to provide better access to hydrologic data, and developing collaborative scientific solutions for effective groundwater and surface water resource management during this ongoing drought.
Namibia and Botswana are characterized by semi-arid to arid climates, posing significant challenges to their water security. Both countries are grappling with the adverse effects of severe drought, leading to a critical shortage of water resources necessary for various sectors including drinking water, livestock, mining, and industry. The governments of Namibia and Botswana have recognized the need for enhanced strategies to comprehend and utilize available water sources more effectively. Through the U.S. Ambassador’s Water Experts Program, the USGS aims to assist in addressing these challenges by providing guidance on technical aspects of water management.
The visit by USGS officials to Namibia and Botswana highlights the importance of international collaboration in addressing water security challenges exacerbated by drought. By focusing on improving understanding and management of water resources through innovative technologies and scientific cooperation, these nations aspire to bolster their water security efforts.
Original Source: www.usgs.gov
