7.
The Policy Principles for Water Resources Management for the SADC region,
taking into account the above policy pronouncements, are as follows:
Recognition of water as an instrument for peace, cooperation and regional
integration
Effective public consultation and involvement of users.
Focus on integrated, people-centred planning.
Further development of SADC water resources through the joint planning
and construction of strategic water infrastructure, in order to rectify
historical imbalances and promote water supply for irrigation and poor
communities.
Efficient use of water through demand management, conservation and reuse, and the efficient use of water for agriculture.
Recognition of the environment as a legitimate user of water, as well as a
resource base.
The protection of the environment through appropriate user charges and
the enforcement of “the polluter pays” principle, taking into account
equity and social justice.
Integration of water supply, sanitation and health and hygiene education
programmes.
Capacity building to ensure that managers of water, waste and sanitation
have the requisite knowledge and tools.
Ensuring that waste is safely managed close to the point of generation.
Preventing the export (and import) of harmful waste across the national
and regional boundaries.
Gender mainstreaming and addressing HIV/AIDS in water resources
management at all levels.
Policy Structure
8.
The policy has nine thematic areas which address the water resources
management issues and challenges outlined in paragraphs 3 and 4, or are
aimed at optimising the development opportunities. The main policy areas
are:
a) Regional Cooperation in Water Resources Management: including
policy provisions on water for regional integration and socio-economic
development; cooperation in water resources management of shared
watercourses; inter-sectoral and international cooperation; and the
harmonisation of national policies and legislation.
b) Water for Development and Poverty Reduction: containing policy
provisions on water for basic human needs and for industrial development;
water for food and energy security.
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