Anja du Plessis completed her doctorate at the University of Johannesburg and is currently a senior lecturer at the University of South Africa. Her research is focussed upon the challenges, risks and possible opportunities which the southern African region faces in terms of surface water availability and quality and have worked as a consultant in this regard. She aims to complete further research and consultation within the southern African region regarding possible future water-related risks and opportunities for various sectors.

• Part I: Global Context of Freshwater Resources.- 1.Global Water Availability, Distribution and Use.- 2.Global Water Quality Challenges.- 3.Global Water Scarcity and Possible Conflicts.- Part II: South Africa's and the Upper Vaal WMA's Freshwater Resources.- 4.South Africa’s Water Availability and Use.- 5.The Upper Vaal WMA.- 6.Primary Water Quality Challenges for South Africa and the Upper Vaal WMA.- 7.Water Scarcity and Other Significant Challenges for South Africa.- Part III: Future Possibilities and Strategic Actions.- 8.A Future Outlook – Improved Water Efficiency and Possible Strategic Actions for South Africa and the Upper Vaal WMA.- Part IV: Challenges, Recommendations and Conclusions.- 9.Challenges and Policy Recommendations.- 10.Conclusions and Evaluations