This Act makes provision for the management of water resources in Lesotho in an integrated and sustainable manner. It establishes the office of the Commissioner of Water and defines powers and duties of the Commissioner and the Minister responsible for water resources. The Act sets out the principles that shall be observed by authorities when carrying out duties and functions under this Act. It vests ownership of all water resources in the Basotho Nation and establishes that, in case of conflicting water uses or insufficient quantity of water, domestic water use shall be given preference over other water uses. The Commissioner shall develop, in consultation with relevant stakeholders a Water and Sanitation Policy. The Commissioner shall also determine reserve for all water resources and classify all water resources in the country. A Water Tribunal is established to adjudicate disputes arising under this Act or any other matter relating to management of water resources. The Act also provides for, among other things: establishment and management of catchment areas, protected wetlands and protected springs; authorization of water use and abstraction of (ground)water; declaration of controlled activities; control of water pollution and effluent discharge permits; waterworks and dam safety; prevention of flood risk; and regulation-making powers of the Minister.
Water Act, 2008 (No. 15 of 2008).