The Theory and Practice of Governance of Water Resources in Zimbabwe

Abstract

Since independence in 1980, agricultural land reform in Zimbabwe has been and continues to receive extensive discussion, although the question of how the distributed land will be governed has not been spelt out adequately. This article examines the issue of governance of water resources in Zimbabwe since water and land are complementary in agricultural production. The question being addressed is whether the theory of governance of water resources, as laid out in the new water legislation, is leading to a betterment of the management of water resources in the country. The analysis is based on recorded meetings of the Save Catchment Council and two of its subcatchments, the Odzi and Upper Save, representing the new institutions created to ensure local participation in the management of water resources. The analysis focuses on the functions and responsibilities assigned to the institutions, the power and authority that they are allowed to wield and their capacity in relation to information, knowledge, and skill base. The article shows that the issue of governance of water resources in Zimbabwe is imbued or endowed with a lot of theory, which is difficult to follow in practice. For example, it has not guaranteed the empowerment of all stakeholders. There is a need to revisit some of the regulations to make them facilitate good governance of water resources through strong local participation.