An often-overlooked challenge in Africa’s infrastructure development is the need for a fundamental rethink in how investments are aligned with meaningful, cross -sector skills development to ensure a climate resilient build environment. The DEVAC Infrastructure Summit held in Johannesburg this week served as a crucial reminder of this during a panel discussion titled: Reskilling, Upskilling, and New Skilling: Strengthening the Water-Energy Linkage to Accelerate Africa’s Infrastructure Development.
Representing the Water Research Commission (WRC), Senior Project Manager Lesego Gaegane called for developments to be planned in tandem, with training requirements integrated directly into infrastructure contracts while driving and championing local innovations.
“TVET colleges must be central to this effort, recognising that Africa’s infrastructure future relies not solely on the expertise of engineers and scientists, but also on the competence of technicians and artisans,” she said.
Reflecting on the interdependence of our water and energy systems and the pressing need to train professionals who can operate at the energy-water nexus –Gaegane emphasised that building expertise at this intersection is not only important, it is urgent.
This resounding message emerged among high level government officials across Africa, industry leaders and stakeholders who have returned home in agreement that: to build Africa better, we must rethink how we align infrastructure investments with meaningful skills development. At the same time, “addressing infrastructure challenges in isolation is no longer a tenable approach.”
The WRC’s projects modelled on these principles have proven to be a success. Among these is the Giyani Local Climate Resilience Programme. By deploying solar-powered boreholes in the region, we simultaneously invested in training local communities in the management of both water and energy infrastructure. This dual-skilling approach has demonstrably improved operational reliability, reduced costs, and generated sustainable employment opportunities at the local level.
The WRC’s approach to skills development is deeply embedded within project implementation and innovation delivery. Under Gaegane’s leadership, the National Siltation Management Programme (NatSilt) provides a compelling example of this integrated methodology. Through NatSilt, the project has pioneered the first occupational-based skills programmes in South Africa focusing on dam siltation, ecological restoration, and catchment rehabilitation – areas vital for extending the operational lifespan of South Africa’s water infrastructure. Critically, these training programmes have been developed through the recognition of prior learning for experienced individuals with no formal qualifications; and have secured accreditation from the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations, ensuring both inclusivity and professional credibility. To foster academic recognition and broader sector alignment, the WRC has forged a partnership with the University of Johannesburg to mainstream Dam Siltation Management short learning programmes for sector-wide upskilling.
“We must champion local innovation, recognising that African solutions, rooted in local knowledge, will yield the most resilient outcomes. But importantly, we must not overlook the vital role of ecological infrastructure – our natural buffers are essential complements to engineered systems,” she says.
The Summit’s broader discussions echoed the sentiment that Africa’s infrastructure must be both climate-resilient and people-resilient. This means prioritising local expertise, knowledge systems, and technical competencies at every stage of development. Beyond robust water and energy systems, a climate-resilient lens must be embedded in all infrastructure planning, encompassing smart design and sustainable materials.
Other speakers echoed the same sentiment. KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Public Works and Infrastructure, Martin Meyer, stressed the continental significance of regional infrastructure, stating, “if KwaZulu-Natal ports fail, South Africa and Africa fail.”
Similarly, Deputy Minister of Electricity and Energy, Samantha Graham-Mare, advocated for policy reforms that champion localisation, ensuring African leadership and implementation of infrastructure projects. Namibia’s Minister of Works and Transport, Veikko Nekundi emphasised the critical need for genuine cross-border collaboration, including shared resources and robust mechanisms for regional skills transfer.
Collectively, these insights point towards a time where African infrastructure is not only engineered to withstand the increasing shocks of a changing climate but is also firmly rooted in local empowerment, regional solidarity, and sustainable development principle.
The Water Research Commission believes that every infrastructure investment should be viewed as an opportunity for skills development. Our collective challenge, and indeed our profound opportunity, lies in transforming the continent’s infrastructure pipeline into a dynamic platform for skills, innovation and inclusivity. It is essential that the people of Africa, particularly women, youth, and rural communities, are placed firmly at the heart of this transformative journey.