Govt water plan lagging behind

Staff Writer | Tuesday February 4, 2014 15:48

In his speech Finance and Development Minister Kenneth Matambo said the policy was expected to be submitted to and approved by Parliament this year.

The policy will allow for development of a national water conservation strategy, which will ensure proper utilisation of water resources. Government is also developing an integrated water resource management plan.

The plan will facilitate the development of processes, procedures, methods and options for full integration of water resources management and development options.

Due to recurring drought, the minister said, the country has been experiencing water shortages countrywide for both human and agricultural use.

The government has therefore initiated measures that included the development of water infrastructure such as dams and water pipelines.

Furthermore, government continues to exploit alternative water sources, such as effluent waste water utilisation, grey water recycling, rain water harvesting to name but a few.