About SADC-GMI

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) region is subjected to severe climatic variability scenarios which negatively impact more than 70% of the region’s population, who are dependent on groundwater for their livelihoods. Tapping into the region’s groundwater resources can significantly strengthen the region’s water security, improve livelihoods, enhance economic growth, and reduce vulnerability to climate change.

The rationale for the establishment of the SADC-GMI was based on the importance of groundwater in the region and the need to set up a “Centre of Excellence” for groundwater resources and groundwater-dependent ecosystems development and management in the region; and to have an institution that will serve as an interlocutor with national, regional and international groundwater initiatives and institutions.

Water security is pivotal, and water is an indispensable basic need linked to the thriving of every sector in a country’s economy for sustainable and inclusive economic growth. Failure to secure an adequate and reliable water supply to support water-dependent sectors results in the loss or disappearance of jobs. Living up to its mandate, since its inception, SADC-GMI has helped many Member States to tap into groundwater resources to strengthen water security and improve livelihoods for vulnerable communities.

Our Vision:

“To be a Centre of Excellence in promoting equitable and sustainable groundwater management in the SADC region”

Our Mandate:

SADC-GMI’s core mandate is to promote sustainable groundwater management and provide solutions to groundwater challenges across the SADC region for improved livelihoods and socio-economic development.

Four strategic objectives are key in achieving the SADC-GMI mandate.

Our Values:

SADC-GMI is guided by 7 key values. Crucially, our values serve as one of the building blocks to shape and mould our culture, giving us a consistent reference point, even in times of change.

  • Integrity: As an advisory institution, SADC-GMI will act with integrity.
  • Diversity: The diversity of SADC and its people is valued as a strength and will be promoted during decision-making
  • Equity: Groundwater resources are often shared resources and the benefits arising from its use will be equitable
  • Accountability & Transparency: Accountability arises from responsible and transparent behaviour. To act as a trusted advisor for groundwater management in SADC, the SADC-GMI will have transparent communication and decision-making and be accountable to Member States.
  • Excellence: SADC-GMI will demonstrate leadership and excellence in groundwater management in the SADC region
  • Professionalism: SADC-GMI will behave in a professional manner in all interactions.
  • Collaboration & Partnership: SADC-GMI will lead collaborative groundwater initiatives for national and regional groundwater management and will develop strong partnerships with key stakeholders in the sector.