The use and protection of water resources in the uThukela River Catchment, South Africa: a review of its past, present and future

Abstract

South Africa is a water-stressed country and therefore the quantity and quality of the water resources are very important. The uThukela River is one of South Africa’s largest rivers and is a critical component of water resource utilisation in South Africa. The rich history of the catchment illustrates the various goods and services provided by the water resources. Presently developments within the catchment have resulted in various impacts to both the quantity and quality of these water resources. The aquatic ecosystem in many of the river’s reaches are deemed ecologically sensitive and important but have been modified due to various anthropogenic impacts. The reduction of flow throughout the system that impacts both the riverine life and the marine ecosystem, including the uThukela Banks and the biology of the Bight, has been addressed. This review highlights not just the socio-economic importance of the uThukela Catchment but also the aquatic ecosystem and the state of water resources in the basin. This review identifies the high priority to manage socio-economic development in the uThukela and the country by reaching a balance between resource use and protection for future sustainability.