Conveners

Cape Peninsula University of Technology, South Africa,

United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation & 

Water Research Commission, South Africa

The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) has initiated a Global Dialogue on Water Tenure to identify principles and models for the responsible governance of water tenure. In this context, water tenure is defined as "the relationships, whether legally or customarily defined, between people, as individuals or groups, with respect to water resources." Ultimately, the dialogue aims to reach a global consensus on a set of Principles for the Responsible Governance of Water Tenure. It is intended that the development of water tenure principles will support countries in their efforts to eradicate hunger and poverty, promote sustainable social and economic development, and protect the environment.

To strengthen the African contribution to the global dialogue, a Special Session on Water Tenure in Africa is proposed. This session will bring together diverse perspectives on water tenure from several southern and eastern African countries, enabling discussion and the synthesis of key messages to inform the global dialogue. While acknowledging the diversity of water tenure systems across the continent, many countries continue to grapple with similar challenges. The lack of a specific focus on water tenure for women is one example. Interdependencies across water, land, and other resource tenure systems is another. Recognition of customary tenure arrangements remains a widespread challenge. As such, there is much for African countries to both contribute and benefit from involvement in the global dialogue.

The special session is convened by the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, FAO and South Africa's Water Research Commission, along with experts on water tenure from southern and eastern African countries.

Programme:

1. Introduction to the Special Session – WRC/CPUT – John Dini/Bongani Ncube (5mins)
2. Message from the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Regional Identity, Germany (5mins)
   1.  Global dialogue on water tenure and African participation to date – FAO – Mr Benjamin Kiersch (10 mins)
      1. Concept of water tenure and the draft principles - Environmental Law Institute – Ms Jessica Troell (10mins)
      2. Emerging insights from research on water tenure across the world - International Water Management Institute – Dr Barbara van Koppen (10mins)
      3. Audience participation/ranking of the elements (10mins)
         1. Panel discussion and Audience Engagement:African perspectives on water tenure and responses to the draft principles (60mins)
            1. Tanzania, Prof Hans Komakech
            2. South Africa, Mr John Dini
            3. Zimbabwe, Prof Emmanuel Manzungu
            4. Mozambique, Prof Dinis Juízo 
3. Synthesis on common themes for transmission to the global dialogue – Prof Larry Swatuk (10mins)