In a groundbreaking effort to enhance water security, the Global Water Partnership Southern Africa and Africa Coordination (GWP-Africa) Secretariat has announced the completion of a transboundary diagnostic analysis (TDA) for the Buzi, Pungwe, and Save (BUPUSA) River Basins. This collaborative initiative between the governments of Mozambique and Zimbabwe, supported by the Global Water Partnership Southern Africa (GWPSA), is set to revolutionize environmental sustainability and socio-economic development in the region.
The TDA, developed under the GEF-BUPUSA project with a generous USD 6 million grant from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), aims to address critical issues such as environmental degradation, poverty, water quality, and infrastructure development. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) is implementing this project, with GWPSA as the regional executing partner.
This analysis is more than just a strategic document; it is a beacon of hope for women in the BUPUSA Basins. Women, often the primary managers of household water supply, stand to gain immensely from the anticipated improvements. The project promises to unlock investments that will lead to better water governance, flood control, and the development of both green and grey infrastructure.
For women, the benefits are manifold. Enhanced water governance means increased participation in decision-making processes, empowering them to shape the policies that affect their daily lives. Infrastructure development will ease the burden of water collection, granting women more time for educational pursuits and economic activities. Improved water quality will safeguard their families’ health, reducing the prevalence of waterborne diseases that disproportionately affect women and children.
The GWP-Africa initiative is not just about providing water; it’s about nurturing growth and fostering resilience. By integrating women into the fabric of water management, the project ensures that their voices are heard, their needs are met, and their contributions are valued.
As the TDA paves the way for a brighter future, GWP-Africa invites stakeholders to disseminate the press release and explore the wealth of information available on the BUPUSA Commission’s website and the GEF’s International Waters Learning Exchange and Resource Network.