The Story Behind This Project
The FlowTracker project aims to enhance water resource management in the uMhlathuze Catchment by integrating real-time monitoring tools with stakeholder-driven decision-making. Building on the successful implementation of Phase 1, which developed decision-support tools such as the FlowTracker mobile app and the INWARDS desktop application, Phase 2 seeks to expand and refine these tools. The project is designed to improve data transparency, stakeholder engagement, and adaptive management strategies for water resources. Phase 1, completed in 2022, was developed in partnership with the uMhlathuze Water Stewardship Partnership (UWASP) and focused on co-developing tools that assist water resource managers in making informed operational decisions. The tools were tailored to meet the specific needs of the catchment’s stakeholders, including municipalities, industries, and conservation groups. In Phase 2, AWARD, in collaboration with WWF-SA and UWASP, will enhance FlowTracker and INWARDS Lite by integrating coastal lakes and improving real-time data accessibility. A data-sharing platform will be established to facilitate transparent communication among stakeholders, ensuring informed water resource planning. Additionally, a stakeholder-friendly water balance model will be implemented, and capacity-building efforts will focus on training UWASP champions in flow data collection. By strengthening governance structures and broadening the application of decision-support tools, FlowTracker Phase 2 will improve the resilience of the uMhlathuze Catchment’s water management system. The project aligns with South Africa’s Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM) principles and aims to institutionalize real-time water monitoring within local governance frameworks, ensuring sustainable water use and disaster preparedness.
Our Journey So Far
Start
2024-08-31
Progress
In Progress
End
2025-07-31
What We’re Aiming For
FlowTracker Phase 2 seeks to build on the achievements of Phase 1 by expanding and refining water resource management tools in the uMhlathuze Catchment. The project has the following objectives: 1. Enhance real-time monitoring tools by upgrading the FlowTracker and INWARDS Lite applications, including the integration of coastal lakes into the monitoring system. 2. Establish a data-sharing platform to improve transparency and communication among stakeholders, ensuring collaborative decision-making based on real-time information. 3. Develop and implement a user-friendly water balance model that facilitates understanding of water use and demand patterns across different sectors. 4. Strengthen stakeholder engagement in compliance monitoring and contribute to the revitalization of non-functional gauge stations. 5. Provide specialized training programs for water resource managers, industry representatives, and community stakeholders to improve data collection accuracy and enhance local capacity for water governance. 6. Facilitate ongoing stakeholder collaboration through regular forums, presentations, and participatory decision-making processes to ensure long-term sustainability and policy alignment. By achieving these objectives, the project aims to strengthen governance, enhance water security, and support climate resilience in the uMhlathuze Catchment.
What We’re Doing
The FlowTracker Phase 2 project involves several key activities aimed at improving water resource management and stakeholder collaboration. Technical advancements will be a core focus, with enhancements to the FlowTracker and INWARDS Lite applications. The upgraded tools will integrate coastal lakes into the monitoring framework and provide real-time data access for water managers. The project will also develop a water balance model, incorporating manual and automated data collection to enhance predictive water use analysis. A critical component of the project is stakeholder engagement, which will include training workshops and knowledge-sharing initiatives. A dedicated data-sharing platform will be created to provide monthly updates on water resource conditions, supporting informed decision-making. This platform will facilitate cross-sectoral communication and collaboration between municipalities, industries, and conservation groups. To ensure long-term sustainability, the project will work with local stakeholders to improve governance structures, particularly in compliance monitoring and non-functional gauge station revitalization. Training modules and instructional videos will be developed for UWASP champions, equipping them with skills in manual flow data recording and compliance monitoring. Through these activities, FlowTracker Phase 2 will enhance real-time water monitoring, foster collaborative governance, and support the resilience of water resource management in the uMhlathuze Catchment.
What We Hope to Achieve
FlowTracker Phase 2 is expected to produce significant improvements in water resource management by expanding real-time monitoring capabilities, fostering stakeholder collaboration, and enhancing governance structures. A primary outcome will be the improved accessibility and accuracy of water monitoring data. The upgraded FlowTracker and INWARDS Lite applications will provide water managers with real-time insights, enabling more adaptive and informed decision-making. By integrating coastal lakes into the monitoring system, the project will expand its geographical and hydrological scope, improving its effectiveness in managing water resources. Another key outcome is enhanced stakeholder engagement through improved communication channels. The establishment of a data-sharing platform will ensure that municipalities, industries, conservationists, and policymakers have access to up-to-date water data. This transparency will strengthen governance by promoting accountability and evidence-based decision-making. The project will also contribute to increased capacity for local water management. Through training programs and community involvement in flow data collection, local actors will gain the skills needed to actively participate in water stewardship.By addressing governance gaps, improving monitoring infrastructure, and facilitating knowledge exchange, FlowTracker Phase 2 will enhance water security, support climate resilience, and contribute to sustainable water resource management in the uMhlathuze Catchment.
Where We’re Working
FlowTracker Phase 2 is being implemented in the uMhlathuze Catchment, located in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The catchment includes key water bodies such as the uMhlathuze River and coastal lakes, which are critical for regional water supply. The project engages local municipalities, industries, and conservation groups in integrated water resource management.
Meet the Team
Dr Jai Clifford-Holmes Hugo Retief
Funders
World Wildlife Fund (WWF)
Mondi Group
GiZ
NBI
Our Collaborators
UWASP
Project in Pictures
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