Mozambique, Zimbabwe ink 3 agreements on cross-border water management

The governments of Mozambique and Zimbabwe have recently signed three agreements related to the protection and utilization of cross-border water resources in the face of climate change.

These agreements aim to address the challenges posed by climate change and ensure the sustainable management of shared rivers, including the Buzi, Pungwe, and Save. The first agreement establishes the Buzi, Pungwe, and Save River Basin Commission, which will focus on various aspects such as flood and drought forecasting, warning systems, and mechanisms to respond to extreme events. This commission will play a crucial role in improving water resource management and coordination between the two countries.

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Joint efforts

The second agreement, signed in Harare, the capital of Zimbabwe, pertains to the hosting of the Buzi, Pungwe, and Save River Basin Commission. This agreement emphasizes the need for data sharing and collaboration to enhance forecasting capabilities and effectively respond to floods and droughts.

The third agreement specifically focuses on the development, management, and sustainable use of water resources in the Save river basin. It envisions joint mobilization of funds for a collaborative project within a 200 km radius (100 km on each side) of the basin. This agreement will facilitate the construction of new dams, which will regulate water flows and stimulate agricultural and livestock development in provinces such as Gaza, Manica, Sofala, and Inhambane in Mozambique.

In Zimbabwe, two new dams are planned to be built. The Chipanda Pool dam will have a capacity of 510 million m³, and the Chitowe dam will have a capacity of 50 million m³. These dams will be located approximately 70 km from the border with Mozambique. The specifics of water allocation and distribution will be determined once the necessary funds are mobilized.

Overall, these agreements highlight the importance of cooperation and joint efforts between Mozambique and Zimbabwe in managing shared water resources, mitigating the impacts of climate change, and promoting sustainable development in the region.