Strengthening integrated transboundary management of the Incomati and Maputo River Basins

The Incomati and Maputo Watercourse Commission (INMACOM), established in November 2021, is mandated to promote cooperative and sustainable management of the Incomati and Maputo river basins. As custodian of the UNDP/GEF‑funded project “Strengthening Integrated Transboundary Management of the Incomati and Maputo River Basins”, INMACOM plays a central role in advancing integrated source‑to‑sea management across river basins, conservation areas, and coastal zones in Eswatini, Mozambique, and South Africa.

The GEF‑8 project represents a milestone moment for INMACOM, positioning the Commission as a credible regional leader in integrated water resource management and as a driver of sustainable development across the three member states.

PROJECT OBJECTIVE

To promote integrated source-to-sea management of the Incomati and Maputo River Basins and coastal zones to ensure environmental security and inclusive livelihoods.

PROJECT COMPONENTS

Component 1: Strengthening regional governance frameworks for transboundary basin management, including application of source-to-sea management approach –

Component 2: Facilitating a knowledge-based approach for source-to-sea management –

Component 3: Support basin-wide and coastal zone strategic planning and investment mobilization

Component 4: Creating sustainable livelihoods through enhancing water, food, energy and environmental security

Component 5: Knowledge generation, communication, and dissemination 

KEY EXPETED OUTCOMES OF THE PROJECT

1. Strengthened Transboundary Cooperation: Enhanced coordination among member states and regional bodies, including collaboration with the Lubombo Transfrontier Conservation Area, to align environmental and socio-economic priorities

2. Capacity Development: Improved institutional and technical capacity at regional and national levels to support integrated water resources management (IWRM).

3. Integrated Water Resource Management: Incorporation of transboundary aquifers into basin planning, promoting conjunctive use of surface and groundwater, including Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) where applicable.

4. Evidence-Based Policy Dialogue: Strengthened decision-making through data-driven dialogue addressing the water–energy–food–ecosystems nexus.

5. Improved Water Quality and Ecosystem Health: Enhanced monitoring systems to reduce water pollution, improve aquatic ecosystem health, and reduce fish morbidity.

6. Enhanced Livelihoods and Economic Development

Support to downstream sectors including:

• Agriculture
• Fisheries
• Hydropower
• Water storage systems

7. Increased Investment and Financing: Mobilization of financial resources aligned with the Strategic Action Programme (SAP) to support priority interventions, improve water availability, and stimulate sustainable economic growth - particularly in key areas such as Maputo Bay.