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Water Abstraction Agreement | Zimbabwe National Water Authority
ZINWA managed dam - Zimbabwe's vital water infrastructure for abstraction agreements

Water Abstraction Agreement

Secure your raw water allocation from ZINWA‑managed dams and state‑owned reservoirs — equitable, sustainable, and fully compliant with the Water Act.

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What is a Water Abstraction Agreement?

A Water Abstraction Agreement is a formal contract between ZINWA and any person, entity, or organisation requiring raw water from ZINWA‑managed or State‑owned dams. This agreement ensures orderly, sustainable, and equitable distribution of Zimbabwe's water resources — the foundation of life, progress, and unity.

💧 "Every drop carries potential — to nourish, empower, transform."

Why a Water Abstraction Agreement is Important

  • Allows proper planning and allocation of available water resources
  • Recognises that water is a finite and limited resource
  • Guarantees water availability for your activities
  • Once allocated, water is reserved exclusively for the agreement holder
  • Ensures compliance with the law — it's the right thing to do
📜 Statutory Instrument 206 of 2001
“No surface water permit is required for water from state‑owned storage works, but every user must enter into an abstraction agreement with the National Water Authority.”

Who Needs a Water Abstraction Agreement?

In terms of the Water Act, anyone using water for purposes other than primary domestic purposes must have an agreement. This includes:

Commercial farming & irrigation
Industrial processing & mining
Energy generation
Community water schemes
⚠️ Section 118 of the Water Act
Operating without a valid agreement constitutes an offense — fines or imprisonment apply.

Requirements — What You Need to Apply

Proof of ownership or lease for the land
Type of crop to be irrigated (if applicable)
Estimated water volume (cubic metres)
Location of water abstraction point
REMEMBER! Water is agriculture's second most strategic input. Secure your water today — get an agreement.

How to Secure Your Agreement

1

Initial application

Visit your nearest ZINWA Catchment office. Complete the official form.

2

Submit documentation

Provide land proof, water use purpose, estimated volume, and abstraction point.

3

Technical assessment

ZINWA evaluates dam levels, sustainability, and catchment balance.

4

Agreement finalisation

Both parties sign — your water allocation is reserved exclusively for you.

Billing & Payment Framework

  • Monthly instalments throughout the agreement period
  • Farmers can align payments with harvest cycles
  • Small‑volume users may opt for upfront payment
  • All fees reinvested into water infrastructure and dam maintenance
💧 Sustainable reinvestment — securing water for communities and development.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the application process take?
Typically 2 to 4 weeks, depending on complexity and catchment office workload.
What documents are required?
Proof of land ownership/lease, crop type (if agriculture), estimated water volume, and abstraction point location.
Can I transfer my water allocation?
Generally non‑transferable. Contact ZINWA for formal variation procedures.
How are restrictions managed during drought?
Equitable reductions based on hydrological data, prioritising domestic water security.
Is an agreement different from a permit?
Yes. For state‑owned dams, the Water Abstraction Agreement replaces the surface water permit.

Contact ZINWA

callcentre@zinwa.co.zw
www.zinwa.co.zw
+263 242 850 261 / 066
0774 674 333 (WhatsApp)
Block 4, East Celestial Park, Borrowdale Road, Harare

Visit your nearest ZINWA Catchment Office for personalised assistance.

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