Water resources development and management in the Republic of the Sudan

Thirty-four million people live in Sudan, and environmental pollution is a major concern throughout the country; therefore industry, communities, local authorities and central government, to deal with pollution issues, should adopt an integrated approach. Most polluters pay little or no attention to the control and proper management of polluting effluents. This may be reflect lack of enforceable legislation and/or the fear of spending money on the treatment of their effluent prior to discharge. Furthermore, the imposed fines are generally too low and, therefore, do not deter potential offenders. Present resources must be strictly monitored and managed effectively, if further deterioration is to be avoided. Community participation in water management programmes should fully involve women, who play a central role in the provision and safeguarding of water for domestic use in rural areas. The pricing system recognises the economic value of water, as stated in the principles of the policy.