Pretoria - President Jacob Zuma has been selected to sit on the Heads of State High Level Panel on Water.
Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Jeff Radebe, said the Director-General of the Department of Water and Sanitation was appointed as Sherpa -- a civil servant or diplomat who undertakes preparatory work prior to a summit conference -- to the President.
“The United Nation’s Secretary-General’s Advisory Board on Water and Sanitation recommended the establishment of a select Heads of State High Level Panel on Water to lead the advocacy initiative on water and adaptation, following the adoption of the 2030 Development Agenda by the UNSG in September 2015.
“The panel will accelerate the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goal 6 (clean water and sanitation), which has renewed focus on the profound impact of climate change on the water cycle,” said Minister Radebe on Thursday after Cabinet’s fortnightly meeting.
He said, given the persistent drought that is experienced across the country, Team South Africa is encouraged to participate in the cleaning up of rivers, streams and wetlands on 18 July, as part of South Africa’s annual Mandela Day activities.
Meanwhile, the Minister said the Report on the Extent of Desertification in South Africa and its impact on the rural economy and related strategies are being implemented to address these challenges.
He said the effects of desertification, land degradation and drought impede efforts aimed at poverty eradication, safeguarding food security, enhancing water quality and quantity, resilience and adaptation to climate change as well as achieving sustainable development.
“South Africa has introduced a number of legislative tools, policies, strategies and practical programmes aimed at addressing desertification and land degradation at all levels.
“These interventions contribute to conservation and socio-economic upliftment, while creating job opportunities, skills development and enhancing livelihoods,” he said.
He said the release of this report contributes to recognition of June 17 as the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought, which was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly.
“This year’s World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought advocates for the importance of inclusive cooperation to restore and rehabilitate degraded land and contribute towards achieving the overall Sustainable Development Goals.
“In doing so, South Africa fulfils its obligations under the UN Convention to Combat Desertification,” said Minister Radebe. - SAnews.gov.za
