A delegation from the University of Namibia’s Department of Geosciences, at the Southern Campus, Keetmanshoop, recently participated in the 7th Southern Africa Development Community Groundwater Management Institute (SADC-GMI) Conference, held from 18–22 November 2025 at the Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo International Conference Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Led by Dr Innocent Muchingami, the team included postgraduate (Master’s and PhD) students as well as 4th-year BSc Geology students, some presenting at an international platform for the very first time. The conference was held under the theme “Advancing Sustainable Groundwater Management in the SADC Region in a Changing Climate.”
“Events like this are critical for shaping the next generation of groundwater specialists,” said Dr Muchingami. “Our students gain exposure to real regional challenges, new research methodologies, and an environment that builds confidence and professional readiness.”
The conference programme featured three days of high-level technical presentations, panel discussions, and networking sessions. Key themes included transboundary aquifer management, climate-smart groundwater utilisation, managed aquifer recharge, and the application of geophysical and remote sensing technologies in arid and semi-arid regions.
Many presentations resonated closely with challenges experienced in Namibia’s groundwater-dependent communities and the deep Kalahari aquifer systems.
During a special session on geophysical applications, Dr Muchingami took part as both a presenter and panel member, an engagement that added strong visibility to UNAM’s growing research footprint in hydrogeology.
“The insights shared at this conference directly strengthen UNAM’s research agenda,” he noted.
“Groundwater remains Namibia’s lifeline, and our participation ensures that both staff and students stay at the forefront of innovations shaping water security in the region.”
The event also brought success for UNAM’s emerging researchers. Ms Eunice Shikongo, a fourth-year BSc Geology student, received the Executive Director Prize for Best Young Professional Presenter for her outstanding presentation on integrated geophysical approaches to rural water security in northern Namibia.
Beyond academic presentations, the conference facilitated valuable opportunities for collaborative funding bids, student exchanges, research partnerships, and knowledge-sharing with groundwater institutions across the SADC region.
“We are committed to building the next generation of groundwater experts,” Dr Muchingami added.
“Support from institutions such as the World Bank and SADC-GMI strengthens our ability to train, mentor and produce graduates capable of addressing the region’s water challenges.”
The UNAM Geosciences team expressed appreciation for institutional support and the financial assistance provided through the World Bank and SADC-GMI-sponsored Namibia competitive grant, which made their participation possible.
