Zambia Takes Lead in Regional Fight for Water Security and Peace
The Minister of Water Development and Sanitation for Zambia, Hon. Collins Nzovu, has called for enhanced regional cooperation in the management of shared water resources across the Zambezi Basin.
Speaking during the Council of Ministers meeting of the Zambezi Watercourse Commission (ZAMCOM) held in Dar es Salaam, Mr Nzovu emphasised the strategic importance of water in supporting livelihoods, promoting peace, and driving regional integration and sustainable development.
The high-level meeting brought together ministers, technical experts and cooperating partners from eight member states within the Zambezi Basin.
Mr Nzovu paid tribute to outgoing chair Jumaa Hamidu Aweso of the Tanzania for his leadership, noting that his tenure had strengthened cooperation among member states.
Zambia has since assumed the chairmanship of the Council of Ministers for the 2026 to 2027 term, signalling a new phase of leadership within ZAMCOM. Mr Nzovu reaffirmed the country’s commitment to advancing the Commission’s agenda during its tenure.
He also highlighted Zambia’s growing role on the global stage, announcing that the country will co-chair the “Water for Cooperation” dialogue at the 2026 United Nations Water Conference alongside Finland in Abu Dhabi.
According to the minister, the dialogue will focus on transboundary water cooperation, scientific collaboration and inclusive governance, which he described as critical to addressing shared challenges across river basins.
Mr Nzovu stressed that cooperation among riparian states is essential, stating that effective collaboration enables countries to mobilise resources for climate resilience and strengthen institutions responsible for managing shared water systems.
He further acknowledged progress made by countries including Zambia, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Botswana in acceding to the 1992 United Nations Water Convention, while Tanzania and Malawi are in the process of joining.
He encouraged all Zambezi Basin states to become parties to the Convention ahead of the 2026 conference, noting that the framework complements existing regional agreements and strengthens cooperation mechanisms.
Mr Nzovu outlined key priorities for the basin, including equitable water utilisation, climate adaptation, environmental sustainability and inclusive governance. He urged member states to use ZAMCOM as a platform to amplify regional voices on global water issues.
The meeting was attended by representatives from the Southern African Development Community (SADC), alongside technical partners and institutions supporting water management initiatives.
Mr Nzovu called on stakeholders to reaffirm their commitment to partnership, stating that shared water resources, when effectively managed, can drive unity, resilience and prosperity across the region.
