Team

George M’manga – PhD Student 

(March 2025-Present)

George’s research focuses on groundwater–surface water interactions and their influence on groundwater-dependent ecosystems (GDEs) in South Africa’s Northern Cape. In this semi-arid region, ecosystems rely heavily on groundwater due to scarce and variable surface water, yet GDEs are poorly mapped and often overlooked in water management. His study aims to improve the understanding of how vegetation and bird life respond to changes in groundwater availability. 

Sivuyile Mbena - MSc Student 

(April 2025-Present)

Sivuyile’s research focuses on aquifer characterization in De Aar, Northern Cape, in South Africa, a groundwater-dependent, semi-arid region with no perennial rivers. His work is part of the ACE Water project, which aims to improve groundwater management using science, innovation, and technology. The study applies geophysical techniques to map and understand the subsurface, supporting efforts to develop sustainable abstraction strategies for municipal boreholes.

Douglas Manchidi - MSc Student 

(April 2025-Present)

Douglas’s project explores groundwater–surface water interactions in the non-perennial river system of De Aar, Northern Cape, South Africa. Using geospatial, hydrogeophysical, and geochemical methods, the study aims to understand the dynamics of water exchange in this semi-arid region where water resources are limited.