MINISTER’S WELCOME NOTE TO THE 2^ND AFRICA WATER WEEK

On behalf of the President of the Republic of South Africa, President Jacob Zuma and the people of South Africa, it is my pleasure as Minister of Water and Environmental Affairs to welcome all delegates, partners, associates and water sector stakeholders who are attending the landmark 2^nd Africa Water Week Conference on our shores.

We are confident that your participation in this conference will contribute positively to the much needed interventions and strategies to address the water situation affecting not only our continent but the globe as a whole. This conference offers us yet another opportunity to reflect on the work we have done and the commitments we have made in various water sector forums around the globe. Accordingly the key theme of the conference: “Carrying Forward the Commitments of Sherm El Sheik on Water and Sanitation: Sprint to the Finish” captures the forward thinking and action oriented mode of the stakeholders. Clearly, we are about action.

We are also humbled to accept the reins of Chairmanship of AMCOW for the next two years and commit to work together with all the partners in the sector to make AMCOW an effective vehicle for water management. As a water scarce country itself, being the 30th driest country in the world and a global partner in sustainable development, South Africa commits to the achievement of the stated objectives of this conference.

As you are aware, South Africa, will be hosting the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ next year under the theme: “Ke Nako, Africa’s Time Has Come”. This theme captures the spirit of partnership within the continent in the hosting of this prestigious tournament and we hope that such spirit will also permeate the corridors of the 2^nd Africa Water Week as we strive to find solutions towards the sustainability of the earth’s most precious resource.

We are a country with rich history and a multitude of diverse cultures, a land of possibility and opportunity. Our biggest asset is undoubtedly our diverse mix of people who are proud of their heritage and the country's remarkable transition to a thriving democracy. We hope you will enjoy the South African experience for the duration of your stay which in all essence is a truly African experience.

This conference, and the achievements we have made together at the 1^st Africa Water Week Conference should inspire all of us as Africans to beat and play louder and louder the drums and horns of a common citizenry, a common hope and a common vision for this excelling and prospering community.

In partnership with AMCOW, the Government of South Africa will endeavor to assist you with whatever you need to make your stay in South Africa a hospitable and a remarkable one.

Thank you and Welcome