The Legal Framework in the Governance of Potable Water Supply In Zimbabwe: A Global, Regional And National Overview of The Iwrm Paradigm

Abstract

This paper looks at the adoption of the Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM) paradigm in southern Africa with special focus on Zimbabwe. The paper is based on national legislation and policy documents, international and regional conventions and protocols, and other available legal documents on managing water resources. The methodology used was largely qualitative research based on documentary analysis and personal observation. Since the late 1990s, all countries in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region have been busy reforming their water legislation and policies in line with the demands of the IWRM paradigm. Nevertheless, while the framework for a perfect IWRM system exists now in Zimbabwe, the situation on the ground does not reflect this ideal situation. The reform process has not taken off as expected owing to a combination of factors ranging from conflicting policies and weak institutional linkages, to insufficient funding. Thus the effectiveness of the new system has been found wanting in as far as implementation is concerned.

Key words: potable water, governance, legal frameworks, legislation, IWRM, Zimbabwe