SADC-GMI embarks on the Shire River – Aquifer System Conjunctive Water Resources Management Research (Shire ConWat) Project
Bloemfontein – South Africa: SADC-GMI is embarking on a major project on the Shire Transboundary Aquifer System shared between Malawi and Mozambique. The project is part of the Sustainable Groundwater Management in SADC Member States project, financed by the Global Environment Facility and the Multi-Donor Trust Fund Cooperation in International Waters in Africa (CIWA) through the World Bank. The International Water Management Institute based in Pretoria, South Africa won the tender to implement the project on behalf and under the strategic guidance of the Southern African Development Community – Groundwater Management Institute (SADC-GMI). The project will involve conducting intensive studies in both Member States (Malawi and Mozambique) to support Transboundary Aquifers Management in Member States in collaboration with relevant government authorities and River Basin Organizations in finding solutions to shared groundwater challenges through Transboundary Diagnostic Analysis and Strategic Action Plans. The Shire system serves as a good pilot project in the SADC region as it provides a fairly unique opportunity to explore conjunctive management of multiple water resources. It is also an important watercourse in Malawi and Mozambique, playing a crucial role in socio-economic development for both Member States.
