The collaboration, signed on 12 May 2026, will create opportunities for joint research, student internships, community engagement and innovation in addressing water, food and energy challenges. It also brings together academia and the water management sector to respond to critical issues relating to water security, climate change, food sustainability and socioeconomic development in South Africa, Eswatini and neighbouring countries.
UMP Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Thenjiwe Meyiwa, described the agreement as a historic partnership as it aligns with the University’s commitment to working with strategic partners to address societal challenges and improve communities.
She said it will open avenues for researchers, students, and alumni to contribute to solutions for water-related challenges affecting communities in the semi-arid region of Southern Africa.
“This collaboration is about ensuring the sustainable use of water for people, plants and animals while contributing towards food security and sustainability,” she said, highlighting the regional significance of the partnership, noting that it extends beyond South Africa and Eswatini, with prospects for collaboration involving Mozambique, and particularly in village and community development initiatives.
UMP’s School of Biology and Environmental Sciences, together with the School of Agricultural Sciences, will contribute research and expertise towards sustainable water use and environmental management.
Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Sciences, Professor Ndiko Ludidi, said sustainable water management remains a pressing priority in South Africa, given the country’s status as a water-scarce region requiring innovative and collaborative responses.
“We are well-positioned for this partnership, particularly through the School of Agricultural Sciences, because agriculture accounts for nearly 70% of freshwater use globally. Partnerships such as these are crucial in ensuring sustainable resource management for future generations,” he said.
The UMP-KOBWA partnership is expected to open avenues for researchers, students and alumni to contribute to water-related challenges, particularly in rural areas.
Chief Executive Officer of KOBWA, Trevor Shongwe, said the agreement is a significant step towards building capacity, generating knowledge and empowering future generations to contribute meaningfully to sustainable natural resource management.
“The collaboration comes at a critical time as climate change continues to impact water systems through droughts, floods and increasing pressure on water infrastructure. We need innovative and sustainable solutions to address challenges relating to water security, environmental sustainability and energy insecurity in the region,” he added.
“This partnership would also provide opportunities for UMP students and researchers to contribute towards real-world solutions in water management and community development."
Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Internationalisation, Professor Aldo Stroebel, said the MoU strengthens the University’s regional and international outlook while creating opportunities for interdisciplinary research around the water-food-energy nexus.
“The impact component of this MoU for universities is far-reaching. It broadens prospects for research, student exposure, innovation and meaningful engagement with communities and stakeholders,” he said, adding that the partnership would also support the development of emerging researchers and position water impact and management as part of UMP’s future institutional research themes.
The MoU is expected to drive collaborative research projects, internships, community engagement initiatives and knowledge-sharing programmes that strengthen sustainable water resource management. Through the partnership, UMP and KOBWA aim to develop practical solutions that support water security, environmental sustainability and long-term regional development.
Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures by JB Creative Cinema. Copyright © UMP.