Title: A transformative social policy approach to implementing IWRM in Zimbabwe and South Africa

Authors: N. Tekwa; B. Dube

Addresses: South African Research Chair in Social Policy, University of South Africa, Pretoria, 0003, South Africa ' Department of Development Studies, University of South Africa, Pretoria, 0003, South Africa

Abstract: The paper examines water policy reforms in Zimbabwe and South Africa, focusing on challenges arising from the adoption of Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) and neoliberal philosophies. Through the transformative social policy (TSP) perspective and qualitative research, the paper provides a comparative analysis of both countries' experiences. Findings highlight divergent approaches, with Zimbabwe's reforms enabling democratic social transformation, while South Africa's emphasis on IWRM principles of economic efficiency and environmental sustainability has marginalised social equity. Considering their shared colonial history, our analysis underscores incorporating historical and contextual factors into water sector reforms for equitable change and protection of vulnerable groups, including women. By examining the intersection of water policy reforms, TSP, and local realities, this study contributes to the discourse on equitable and sustainable water management.

Keywords: IWRM; integrated water resource management; TSP; transformative social policy; qualitative research; water policy reform: Zimbabwe; South Africa.

DOI: 10.1504/IJW.2024.143303

International Journal of Water, 2024 Vol.16 No.2, pp.159 - 178

Received: 15 Nov 2023
Accepted: 08 Apr 2024
Published online: 12 Dec 2024 *

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