UNICEF Youth Leading in Water Resilience

Scale and Replicate Successful Elements

and community champions – but for these efforts to fully blossom, they must be backed by policies that institutionalize youth participation and ensure the necessary resources and infrastructure are in place. By following the recommendations above, stakeholders can ensure that the end of the project is in fact the beginning of a larger movement. The vision is that in a few years, youth-led water monitoring and advocacy will be commonplace across South Africa, and that the water resilience of communities will measurably improve as a result. This aligns with the nation’s goals for sustainable development and climate adaptation, demonstrating how empowered youth at the grassroots can drive progress on big societal challenges.

UNICEF, WESSA, and partners should expand the project nationwide, prioritising water-stressed areas. A trainer-of-trainers model can be used to empower youth leaders to replicate activities in new schools and communities. Synergies with climate change education, youth employment programs (YES), and scouting movements should be explored to mainstream water resilience efforts. Scaling up the model as part of climate adaptation and education reforms ensures sustainability and broader impact. Sustaining the project’s impact requires both community-driven continuity and supportive policy frameworks. Grassroots strategies will keep the flame alive on the ground – through school clubs

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Water quality testing Youth Training KZN.