MMERE prioritizes review of current Water Resources Act

By ALFRED PAGEPITU

The Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification (MMERE) is moving to replace the current Water Resources Act, which dates back to 1969, as it is no longer adequate to address the country’s water challenges.

Deputy Director of Water Resources, Robert Iromalefo, said the Ministry is working on a new water bill to provide a modern legal framework for responsible water management.

“The 1969 Water Resources Act is outdated and ineffective for the challenges we face today.”

“We are trying to replace it with a new bill. An early draft has already been developed for consultations, and further instructions are being clarified by the Attorney General,” Iromalefo said.

He said the Ministry is also preparing regulations to accompany the new bill, ensuring a comprehensive framework for water governance.

“This includes responsible management, conservation, sustainable use of water resources, and strong protections for catchments and groundwater.”

He adds that the new legal framework will also include climate resilience measures, recognition of customary rights, state responsibilities, partnerships, governance, and enforcement tools.

Iromalefo also highlighted that improving data collection and digitization for water and WaSH services is a key priority, as harmonized data will support better planning and decision-making for the sector.

“We need to improve data collection and digitization, then harmonize this data across the WaSH sector to guide our planning and interventions,” he said.

ENDS///