Tuesday, 15th September, 2026
KOBWA Showcases Transboundary Water Governance Model at Africa Water Gateway
KOBWA CEO Mr. Trevor Shongwe delivering his presentation at the Africa Water Gateway
On 15-16 September 2026, the Komati Basin Water Authority (KOBWA), represented by its Chief Executive Officer, Mr Trevor Shongwe, participated in the Africa Water Gateway Conference held at the Coastlands Umhlanga Hotel and Convention Centre in Durban, South Africa.
The two-day conference brought together water sector professionals, policymakers, researchers, industry leaders, and development partners from across the continent to discuss innovative approaches to water management and infrastructure development. The event focused on advancing innovation, promoting sustainable water management practices, strengthening water infrastructure, and identifying practical solutions to address Africa's growing water challenges.
Mr. Trevor Shongwe engaging with the audience after making his presentation on Transboundary Water Governance as a Platform for Innovation The KOBWA Model
The conference provided a valuable platform for knowledge sharing, collaboration, and the exchange of best practices aimed at enhancing water security, climate resilience, and sustainable socio-economic development across Africa. Participants engaged in discussions on emerging technologies, water governance, investment opportunities, infrastructure financing, and strategies to improve access to reliable water resources for communities and industries.
As part of the conference programme, KOBWA Chief Executive Officer, Mr Trevor Shongwe, delivered a presentation titled "Transboundary Water Governance as a Platform for Innovation: The KOBWA Model." The presentation highlighted KOBWA's experience in managing shared water resources between the Kingdom of Eswatini and the Republic of South Africa and demonstrated how effective transboundary cooperation can serve as a catalyst for innovation and sustainable development.
KOBWA Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Trevor Shongwe (left), with fellow panellists Mr. Muyahavho Mugwili, Research Development and Process Technology Manager at Magalies Water Scientific Services; Ms. Lindokuhle Nzoyi, Chief Executive Officer of Amatola Water; and Dr. Ashton Mpofu, Director of AfriVolve Group, during a panel discussion at the Africa Water Gateway Conference
Mr. Shongwe shared insights into KOBWA's governance framework, institutional arrangements, and collaborative approaches to water resources management, illustrating how strong partnerships between neighbouring countries can facilitate equitable water allocation, infrastructure development, environmental stewardship, and economic growth. He further outlined the successes achieved through regional cooperation and emphasized the importance of collaborative governance in tackling increasingly complex water-related challenges.
KOBWA's participation in the Africa Water Gateway reaffirmed its position as a leading institution in transboundary water resources management and provided an opportunity to share lessons learned with a wider continental audience. The engagement also enabled the Authority to establish new networks, explore potential partnerships, and gain valuable insights into emerging trends and best practices within the African water sector.
KOBWA CEO, Mr Trevor Shongwe, and IUCMA CEO, Mr Mokgema Mongane, share a light moment during the Africa Water Gateway Conference
Through its participation, KOBWA continues to contribute to regional and continental discussions on sustainable water management while promoting innovative solutions that support water security, and economic development.
