Decentralizing the Water Sector - A Case Study on the Namibian Water Management Strategy -

Abstract: A water crisis depends on more than a lack of supply, it is also about policies and management. Namibia, a Southern African country, has chosen a decentralisation-strategy, including privatisation and community management, in order to improve the efficiency, equality and sustainability, in the water sector. This strategy is also known as the Integrated Water Resource Management-process (IWRM). My case study of the Namibian water sector investigates if the decentralization efforts have been meaningful; a prerequisite for the IWRM process to work accordingly. If not the government can withhold power, while delegating the responsibilities. My findings are that the Namibian government has not devolved enough power and resources to the water sector, and could thus be improved. I have also investigated in what ways the African state and context is influencing and affecting the IWRM process. The results are that the do have some impact, but can in certain circumstances be helpful.