Management of water extremes: A South African perspective on guidelines for policy and strategy development

Abstract

This presentation endeavours to present some guidelines for policy and strategy development with regard to the effective management of floods and droughts. Insights are gained from a literature study about the social, economic and political impacts of irrigation droughts, research done on the impacts and management of floods and water restrictions in South Africa as well as analysing the disaster management policy process in South Africa since 1994. The South African experience in terms of the management of water extremes, serves as basis for policy and strategy development and should benefit all involved – including other regions.