National Water Act summary – South Africa: The National Water Act (NWA) is a South African law that was enacted in 1998 to provide for the management and use of the country’s water resources. The law applies to all water resources in South Africa, including:
- surface water,
- groundwater, and
- coastal water.
National Water Act Objective
The main objectives of the NWA are to ensure that water is used sustainably and equitably, to protect the environment and public health, and to promote economic development.
The NWA establishes a system of water management that is based on catchment management. This means that water resources are managed on a regional basis, taking into account the needs and uses of all users in the catchment area. The law also establishes a system of water rights, which is used to allocate water to different users. Water rights can be granted to individuals, communities, or companies, and are subject to certain conditions and restrictions.
Under the NWA, the government is responsible for managing and regulating water resources. The law establishes several government agencies that are responsible for different aspects of water management, including the Department of Water and Sanitation, the Water Research Commission, and the National Water Resource Management Council. These agencies are responsible for issuing water use licenses, enforcing the law, and conducting research and monitoring.
The NWA also includes several provisions to protect the environment and public health. For example, the law requires that water users take measures to prevent pollution and to protect wetlands, rivers, and other sensitive areas. The law also includes provisions to protect the rights of communities and individuals who are affected by water projects.
Overall, the National Water Act is an important law that plays a crucial role in ensuring that South Africa’s water resources are used sustainably and equitably. The law is designed to protect the environment and public health, while also promoting economic development. The law also establishes a system of water management that is based on catchment management and water rights.