The WaMiSAR concept was developed as a major contribution to the initiative of the Federal Ministry of Education and Research to promote German-African cooperation on "Water Security in Africa - WASA" in southern Africa with the participation of Namibian, South African, Zambian, Botswanan and German partners. The aim is to develop the topic of water security for water resources affected by mining for this guide. Due to the complexity of the topic, a "Mine Water Network - MiWaNet" was established with relevant actors from administration, science and industry to identify the main challenges and develop regional concepts for the implementation of the main phase. The sectoral investigations in the initial phase identified baseline studies, the water balance of post-mining landscapes (incl. phytoremediation) and potential pollution from irrigation with mine water as feasible. In addition, the first potential donors on the African side, such as the Namibian Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform or the South African Mine Water Coordinating Body, are already involved in this network. The mining companies involved, such as Rosh Pina Corporation Ltd. and Dundee Precious Metals Inc., should also be mentioned in this context.

In WaMiSAR, we want to tackle the challenges of mine water management together and shape the global knowledge society with emerging and developing countries. The MiWaNet platform is used for mutual consultation, in which mine water management issues and project results are discussed and evaluated in regular meetings. The figure outlines the round table as the central element of the network, where the most pressing challenges for water security in the mining sector in Southern Africa are discussed and solutions identified. This network currently includes partners from administration, research, mining, environmental consulting and technology. The circle of participants is not limited to the funded project partners. All institutions in the countries of Southern Africa and Germany with a legitimate interest can participate.