Post 1994, our Parliament has one of the highest proportions of women in the world – powerful, outspoken and committed women. We have ratified the Convention to Eliminate Discrimination Against Women. We have women Ministers, women leading powerful government departments, women who are leaders in business and industry, women who lead their communities. And in the water sector we have many, many women who have made their mark.

It is in order to recognise the role that women have played and continue to play in water management in South Africa that the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry, the Water Research Commission and the Water Institute of South Africa have jointly developed the Women in Water Awards.  This initiative aims to honour and celebrate the hard work of women and to highlight:

• The participation of professional and community-based women in water management; and

• The key role women play with regard to water and poverty eradication, education and sustainable development in both urban and rural settings.

We welcome on board Eskom Generation Division as our sole corporate sponsor for Women in Water 2004. Eskom is the major strategic water user in South Africa and is committed to advancing the role women play in the water sector.

The launch of the Women in Water Awards in March 2002 marked the beginning of an important tradition in the water sector in South Africa. This year we present awards to women who have played leading roles in five categories:

• Research (for a nominee of 35 years and older);           

• Research (for a nominee under 35 years);

• Community Development;

• Education and Communications; and

• Management and Policy–making.

Nominees for these categories can either be an individual or a group. The awards will be presented to women of stature, women who have excelled in their field, and who have made a significant contribution to the water sector in South Africa.

Successful nominations will be chosen  by the adjudication panel for:

• the use of knowledge;

• skills; and

• considerable capacity to ensure that water  management in South Africa contributes to a better life for all.

CLOSING DATE:
The completed nomination form must be received by the 928 November 2003. The award winners will be announced during National Water Week 2004 (22 - 28 March 2004).