Contested access: improving water security through benefit sharing

ABSTRACT

This article examines the potential and limits of benefit-sharing regimes in improving water security. It draws on a case study of benefit-sharing regimes focusing on the non-consumptive use of the Zambezi River basin. It demonstrates how these regimes have transformed over time from hierarchical to egalitarian benefit-sharing arrangements through the application of conflict-resolution mechanisms. This case analysis is aimed at informing benefit-sharing policies for African river basins.

KEYWORDS:

• Water security
• benefit-sharing regimes
• conflict resolution
• Zambezi River basin

Acknowledgments

This work was supported by the International Water Security Network which is funded by Lloyd’s Register Foundation, a charitable foundation helping to protect life and property by supporting engineering-related education, public engagement and the application of research.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.