Large parts of the Southern African Development Community are arid or drought prone and the region is vulnerable to recurrent floods and drought. Notwithstanding the impact of climatic change, the SADC region has recorded increased water demand and resultant water stress. Water is more than just a basic need: it is a catalyst for our development and a critical input for all our development initiatives. We must therefore create an enabling environment for effective integrated water resources management and development so that the sustainability of our water resources can be maintained.