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Rainwater harvesting in Southern Africa: Regional annex [Quality Assurance: Jo Smet and Kristof Bostoen]

Author(s): Moyo, Sibonginkosi  |  Nyimo, Takura  |  Smet, Jo  |  Bostoen, Kristof

Publisher: WEDC
Place of publication: Loughborough University, UK
Year: 2006

Series: WELL Fact Sheet
Collection(s): WELL

Links:

• http://www.lboro.ac.uk/research/wedc/well/

Rainwater harvesting is rapidly being recognised as a primary or alternative source of water in Southern Africa, a region prone to droughts and unreliable rainfall. In the 1970s and 1980s, the potential of rainwater harvesting to improve crop production received great attention due to widespread droughts (Critchley and Reji, 1989). Despite its apparent potential use, rainwater remains relatively unexplored in the region. Although there are no clear policies to fully support rainwater harvesting, farmers in the region are using traditional techniques such as rock catchment, dead level contours, roof catchment, infiltration pits and road catchment to harvest rainwater. There are associations in the various countries formed to promote rainwater harvesting. These associations fall under a regional network called SEARNET.

In Zimbabwe, farmers practising rainwater harvesting now enjoy increased yields with 2 to 3 harvests in a planting season. Institutional support for rainwater harvesting from Government and donor agencies is increasing. In Botswana households practise homestead catchment with channels leading to underground tanks. Gender issues are taking a centre stage in the unfolding momentum of rainwater harvesting as women are the major users of rainwater systems. They are involved in decision making on how to practise farming, maintenance of the systems and distribution of income.

The benefits from rainwater harvesting include improved access to water, income generation as well as improved health and quality of life among others. Problems associated with the practice presently are limited capacity, financial constraints and the HIV/AIDS pandemic that is wiping out the able bodied.

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