Johannesburg — With water scarcity looming as a critical challenge across continents, Indian and South African experts came together this week to explore sustainable solutions at a high-level symposium in Johannesburg.
Organised by Ion Exchange Safic, a subsidiary of Ion Exchange (India) Ltd, the two-day event brought together over 100 industry leaders, engineers, utility managers, and water professionals from across South Africa and the broader African region. The goal: to share cutting-edge approaches to water and wastewater management and foster cross-border collaboration.
Speaking at the event, Mahesh Kumar, India’s Consul General in Johannesburg, highlighted that partnerships like that between Ion Exchange and its South African counterpart Safic represent the kind of global engagement India encourages—where business objectives align with larger societal benefits.
“We always advise Indian companies expanding abroad to pursue broader development goals. Profits will follow naturally,” Kumar said.
A Shared Global Crisis
Water scarcity is fast becoming a global crisis. Both South Africa and India face growing water stress, with at least 11 major South African cities and a similar number of Indian cities under severe pressure, Kumar noted. The concept of ‘Day Zero’, where taps run dry, is no longer theoretical—it’s a real threat for urban centres worldwide.
India’s experience offers valuable lessons. Kumar pointed out that over 80% of Indian municipalities are now adopting modern practices such as water reuse, metering, and digital water governance.
“Our Smart Cities projects integrate leak detection systems and use AI to audit water use. These scalable innovations can support global efforts,” he said.
Fostering Skills for the Future
Beyond technology, the symposium also underscored the urgent need to invest in human capital.
“The water sector is a key driver of employment. Both South Africa and India must prioritise training youth in water management technologies,” Kumar stressed.
He also acknowledged the role of Indian enterprises in contributing to local skill development. Over 150 Indian companies are invested in South Africa, with many actively involved in training and community upliftment.
Looking Ahead
Participants left the symposium with a renewed commitment to collaboration between India and South Africa not just in business, but in finding shared solutions to one of the planet’s most pressing challenges: sustainable water security.
“This is just the beginning,” Kumar said. “Events like this lay the groundwork for deeper cooperation between our nations in water management and beyond.”
