This SADC Regional Water Strategy (RWP) 2006 aims to ensure the integrated, sustainable management and development of the region's water resources to support economic integration, poverty reduction, and peace within the SADC region. Key objectives are identified in the policy document. 1. Regional Cooperation: Promote joint management of shared watercourses and harmonization of national policies and legislation. 2. Economic Development and Poverty Reduction: Use water resources to support socio-economic development, food security, energy, and industrial growth while promoting equitable water allocation. 3. Environmental Sustainability: Protect water resources through sustainable management practices, including controlling pollution and invasive species. 4. Disaster Management: Develop infrastructure and strategies to mitigate water-related disasters like droughts and floods. 5. Information Management: Improve data acquisition, sharing, and management for better decision-making. 6. Institutional Framework: Strengthen institutions at the national and regional levels to support the strategy's implementation. 7. Stakeholder Participation and Capacity Building: Promote inclusive participation, especially for women, youth, and marginalized groups, and build capacity in water management. 8. Financing: Ensure financial sustainability for water-related projects through partnerships and efficient use of resources. The RWP emphasizes the importance of a coordinated, sustainable, and integrated approach to water management to support the SADC objectives of poverty reduction, food security, energy security, and industrial development. It also acknowledges the challenges faced by the region, such as poverty, HIV/AIDS, inadequate water infrastructure, and the need for harmonization of national policies and legislation. It calls for a collaborative approach among member states to address these challenges and achieve the strategic objectives outlined in the document. The implementation will be primarily coordinated through the Regional Strategic Action Plan (RSAP), with SADC overseeing the process. Member States are responsible for incorporating the strategy into national policies.
2006-01-01