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Chenai Museta

ZIMBABWE’S participation at the ongoing 8th India Water Week 2024 in New Delhi signals renewed focus on regional cooperation coming on the backdrop of the devastating impact of drought and climate change.

The event that is running from September 17 to 20 brings together international leaders, policymakers, academics and water experts to discuss sustainable water management on a global scale.

Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Deputy Minister Vangelis Haritatos yesterday apprised attendees of the event on the efforts the country has made in tackling the pressing issue of water security.

“This gathering resonates deeply with our commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG6) that focuses on water and sanitation,” observed Dep Min Haritatos.

He said this year’s theme – ‘Partnerships and Cooperation for Inclusive Water Development and Management’ underlined the importance of collaborative water management in the face of global climate challenges. Dep Min Haritatos also highlighted the effects of climate change on Zimbabwe, particularly the current drought caused by El Niño, which has intensified water scarcity.

Zimbabwe is currently facing its worst drought in 40 years, with severe implications to agriculture.

Dep Min Haritatos emphasised the country’s commitment to increasing water infrastructure hinting at the construction of 12 new large dams aimed at improving water supply for drinking and irrigation.

“The need for international collaborations to tackle these challenges cannot be overstated. Solutions must transcend national borders,” he remarked.

He underscored the need for Zimbabwe to participate in regional water agreements, such as those with the African Ministers Council on Water (AMCOW) and neighbouring countries’ watercourse commissions, which results in a significant improvement in cooperation on shared water resources.

Additionally, Dep Min Haritatos drew parallels between the water challenges faced by Zimbabwe and India, noting that both countries struggled with severe water scarcity and infrastructural deficits.

“Despite our different geographical and demographic contexts, both nations struggle with severe water shortages and related infrastructure deficits. Collaborative approaches are essential for effective solutions,” he said.

One take-away point from his remarks was Zimbabwe’s dedication to transboundary water management. He outlined the country’s participation in various regional water agreements such as those with the African Ministers Council on Water (AMCOW) and neighbouring countries’ watercourse commissions.

“Our efforts have significantly improved cooperation on shared water resources,” he explained adding that recent data had shown an increase in formal agreements from 69, 9 to 90, 4 percent.

The Dep Min expressed hope that the conference would lead to fruitful collaborations, expressing optimism for fruitful discussions that will foster partnerships to secure sustainable future water supplies for all.

The 8th India Water Week remains a critical platform for sharing knowledge and building coalitions to confront the world’s water challenges.