By Emmanuel Chikonso
Malawi is reviewing the possibility of joining two major international agreements to strengthen cooperation in the management of shared water resources.
A two-day workshop in Lilongwe, organised by the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Water Development, is examining the country’s potential accession to the 1992 United Nations Water Convention and the 1997 United Nations Watercourses Convention.
Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Irrigation and Water Development Thoko Tembo said the discussions are focused on promoting responsible water management through regional cooperation and sustainable practices.
According to Tembo, the conventions provide a global framework that can help Malawi align its water governance systems with international standards while maintaining national ownership.
Secretary to the UN Water Convention, Sonja Koeppel, said accession would strengthen water governance, enhance integrated water resource management and support the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal Six. She notes that the Convention has expanded beyond Europe, with more African countries joining in recent years.
Malawi shares significant water resources with neighbouring countries, including Lake Malawi, making cross-border cooperation essential.
European Union Ambassador to Malawi Daniel Aristi Gaztelumendi said international water conventions are important tools for peace, prosperity and climate resilience, adding that participation can also boost investor confidence in the water sector.
For the government, the outcome of the workshop will guide its decision on whether to formally accede to the two UN water conventions.
Currently, there are 58 countries which are Parties to the UN Water Convention.
