Ljubljana: The Minister of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform of Namibia, Calle Schlettwein, has highlighted the critical need to address water-related issues driven by climate change. Speaking at the 10th session of the Meeting of the Parties to the Water Convention in Slovenia, Schlettwein underscored the importance of transboundary water cooperation for Namibia, a country heavily reliant on shared water resources for its agriculture, economic development, and ecological conservation.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Schlettwein emphasized that Namibia’s efforts in fostering collaboration and securing equitable water shares have been integral to its membership in the shared river basin community. He noted that sustainable water management is essential for various sectors, including agriculture, urban and rural water supply, and sanitation. However, he acknowledged the challenges in negotiating water rights, particularly in the context of water scarcity and competition.
By joining the Water Convention, S
chlettwein stated, Namibia seeks to bolster cooperation on shared water resources in sub-Saharan Africa. This framework has already contributed to regional stability and conflict prevention in parts of Europe and Africa. He asserted that the Water Convention supports the sustainable management of shared water resources and advances the sustainable development goals, peace, security, and regional integration.
Schlettwein highlighted that since Namibia became a party to the Water Convention, the country has gained significant insights and strengthened its role in regional and international water governance. Namibia has also benefited from tools that assist in water allocation and financing River Basin Organisations and has deepened its solidarity with neighboring countries in addressing climate change-related water scarcity.
Furthermore, Schlettwein called for prioritizing Africa, especially Namibia, in global funding allocations for water infrastructure and climate change responses. He cited Namibia’s twinni
ng initiative with Finland as an example of leveraging international experience to enhance water management efforts.