Water challenges in South Africa
South Africa is a country with a diverse climate, ranging from arid regions to wetlands. Due to its geographical location and climate, water scarcity has been a critical issue for agriculture. The agricultural sector in South Africa is responsible for 62% of total water consumption, making it the largest water user in the country.
Agricultural water usage in South Africa can be divided into two categories Irrigated agriculture and Rainfed agriculture.
Irrigated agriculture accounts for 62% of water use, while rainfed agriculture accounts for the remaining 38%. In South Africa, the majority of irrigated agriculture occurs in the western regions of the country, where water resources are limited.
Water Management
The government of South Africa has implemented several policies to manage water resources and reduce the impact of agricultural water usage. One such policy is the National Water Act of 1998, which outlines a framework for water resource management in the country. The Act establishes a system of water licenses for users, including farmers, and promotes the sustainable use of water resources.
In addition to policy frameworks, the South African government has invested in infrastructure and technology to increase water efficiency in agriculture. The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development has implemented several initiatives to promote sustainable water use in the sector. These initiatives include the establishment of irrigation schemes, the promotion of water-efficient farming practices, and the development of drought-resistant crops.
Water Scarcity Remains an issue...
Despite these efforts, there are still significant challenges to managing water resources in the agricultural sector in South Africa. Climate change, in particular, has impacted the country’s water supply, leading to droughts and water shortages. As a result, farmers are increasingly turning to alternative water sources, such as treated wastewater and groundwater, to meet their needs.
Another challenge is the issue of water governance and water access. Many small-scale farmers in South Africa lack access to water resources, which limits their ability to produce crops and earn a livelihood. Addressing these challenges requires a coordinated effort from government, civil society, and the private sector to promote sustainable water use and ensure equitable access to water resources.
In sum, water scarcity is a critical issue for agriculture industry in South Africa. The country has made significant progress in managing water resources and promoting sustainable water use in the sector. However, ongoing challenges, including climate change and water governance, require continued attention and investment. By working together, stakeholders can ensure that South Africa’s agricultural sector remains sustainable and productive for future generations.
The solution lies in vertical farming, it requires up to 95% less water, compared to traditional farming. Read more about vertical farming in our previous blog post.