The viability of an Integrated Water Resource Management(IWRM) approach to alleviate potable water shortages, the case of Chimoio, Mozambique

The study examines water management in Chimoio, Mozambique while focusing on water availability, distribution, quality, and stakeholder participation through data collected via questionnaires and interviews. The are significant challenges in urban water supply being experienced in Chimoio, for instance, water stress due to unreliable supply and infrastructure issues. While the majority of the population relies on municipal and groundwater sources, water shortages and high non-revenue water (NRW) levels persist. There is a public health risk concern and low economic growth due to water scarcity. Water scarcity seem to be mostly due to economic constraints, rather than ecological factors. Water quality concerns are prevalent, with a significant portion of the population relying on untreated groundwater, raising health risks. The study also highlights the limited implementation of Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM) and inadequate wastewater treatment and recycling practices in the city. Despite government promotion of IWRM, local efforts remain inadequate, especially in stakeholder and public participation in water management. The research emphasizes the need for innovative and sustainable water management practices, including the promotion of rainwater harvesting and active leakage control, to address water shortages and improve overall water governance in Chimoio.