<\/p>\n
In South Africa\u2019s water-scarce regions, one of the most effective ways to restore water is also one of the least visible: clearing invasive alien vegetation.<\/p>\n
In the Western Cape, where the threat of \u2018Day Zero\u2019 once brought the province to the brink, communities are working on the ground to restore natural water systems by removing invasive plants that consume significantly more water than indigenous species.<\/p>\n
This work is led by local teams, many of them all-female, who are actively clearing invasive species from critical catchment areas. These teams are often employed by small, black women-owned enterprises that are creating jobs and driving inclusive economic participation in their communities.<\/p>\n
By removing invasive vegetation, they are enabling water to flow back into rivers, dams, and underground systems, directly supporting surrounding communities, agriculture, and ecosystems.<\/p>\n
Invasive alien plants absorb far more water than native vegetation, placing additional strain on already limited resources. Clearing these species is therefore not just an environmental intervention, but a practical, high-impact solution to improving water availability in water-stressed regions.<\/p>\n
Measurable impact<\/p>\n
Since 2015, through partnerships with organisations such as The Nature Conservancy and WWF South Africa, this work has helped clear thousands of hectares of invasive vegetation in the Western Cape.<\/p>\n
The impact is measurable, with more than 3.3 billion litres of water returned to local systems.<\/p>\n
Beyond the environmental benefits, this work is creating meaningful local livelihoods by equipping communities with skills, income, and long-term opportunities, while contributing to ecosystem restoration.<\/p>\n
For those on the ground, the impact is immediate and tangible.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe work we do is not just about clearing land; it is about restoring balance to nature and helping water flow back into our communities,\u201d says invasive species clearing specialist Thandeka Mayiji-Rafu.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt is about making a difference where we live.\u201d<\/p>\n
SAB supports these initiatives as part of its broader commitment to protecting the natural resources that sustain both communities and its business.<\/p>\n
Supportive role<\/p>\n
\u201cWater is the most important ingredient in beer, but more importantly, it is essential to the communities we serve,\u201d says Zoleka Lisa, vice president of Corporate Affairs at SAB.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur role is to support work that strengthens water security in a way that is practical, local, and sustainable.\u201d<\/p>\n
These efforts form part of SAB\u2019s global Cheers to Nature platform, which focuses on nature-based solutions that deliver real, measurable impact.<\/p>\n
While the work itself happens on the ground, SAB has launched a Watershed Film to bring greater visibility to these efforts, ensuring that the people behind the work \u2013 and the impact they are having \u2013\u00a0are seen and understood more widely.<\/p>\n
At a time when water security remains a growing national and global challenge, this work highlights a simple but powerful truth: restoring nature is one of the most effective ways to restore water.<\/p>\n
Watch the SAB Watershed Film below:<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Brought to you by SAB Corporate.<\/p>\n
#Restoring #water #systems #naturebased #solutions<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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