Strengthening freshwater conservation in Africa

Sub-Saharan Africa’s freshwater ecosystems support millions of people yet face escalating pressure from rapid development and multiple environmental stressors. To strengthen knowledge and management of these vital systems, the Sustainable African Rivers Initiative (SARI) was established as a collaborative research program focused on conservation, ecosystem health and community wellbeing.

Through the Gulbali Institute, Charles Sturt provides scientific expertise and research capability aspart of a collaborative partnership with North-West University, the University of Mpumalanga and Oppenheimer Generations Research and Conservation. Together, the initiative has created

a dedicated research base in Mbombela, enabling applied studies in aquatic ecology, fisheries, toxicology and ecosystems services. SARI is now actively advancing evidence-based understanding of freshwater ecosystems across the region.

This partnership-driven approach supports healthier aquatic environments and strengthens the sustainable management of freshwater systems essential to community livelihoods and biodiversity.