IAH were proud to be a member of the World Water Day 2024 Task Force, and to participate in the global public campaign to engage people in conversation and debate, raise awareness and inform decision-making across the world. IAH groups and members organised and participated in events across the world and shared the campaign through social media.
The theme of World Water Day was ‘Leveraging water for peace’. Our President issued this message:
“If the earth has a secret, underground pulse, that pulse is groundwater. It is this heartbeat that half of humanity relies upon and is the sole source of water for almost a third of the world’s population. Groundwater is the circulatory system under our agricultural fields and the lifeblood of many industries. Its veins and arteries reach cities, and perhaps of equal importance, isolated rural communities with no other source of water. Groundwater seeps from the banks of rivers and lakes feeding approximately half of our surface water resources. Its capillaries, and capillary fringes, not only connect with rivers and lakes, but also issue forth into springs and wetlands. In doing so groundwater supports ecosystems around the world. Truly, groundwater is earth’s last lifeline in the face of the onslaught of climate change and population growth. This invisible resource is essential to the survival of our planet and to the millions who desperately thirst for peace. With nearly 500 transboundary aquifers and aquifer systems identified, but few international agreements for collaborative groundwater use, there is much work to be done. Groundwater professionals can help ensure a conflict-free and harmonious future. By informing and facilitating cooperative interaction on this hidden, subterranean pulse of the planet, we can move the world forward toward peace.”
IAH’s Hydrogeoday, started by our Spanish National Chapter in support of World Water Day, continues to spread the word on the importance of groundwater. Africa’s first Hydrogeoday event took place in Palapye, Botswana, with the Chief and other stakeholders from Khurumela Community ward. IAH members advocated for the protection and management of groundwater resources amidst the challenges posed by climate change in Botswana. The event also raised the awareness of the historical and cultural heritage associated with the origins of Khurumela’s own well.