Sand dams: a sustainable solution for water scarce regions

Sand dams were identified as one potential adaptation measure that could be piloted in Swaziland. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Special Climate Change Fund (SCCF) is providing the government of Swaziland with technical support for a sand dam pilot project. The aim is to develop climate change resilient community schemes to improve water resources management. One such scheme is a sand dam pilot project where their effectiveness will be monitored and eventually inform strategic and policy directions across the country. A successful and cost-effective pilot sand dam project will guide the country into a wider national programme to be driven by the Swazi Government. The project is being supported by three government ministries that will eventually explore in more detail should they be successful. The key institutions are: Department of Water Affairs, Ministry of Agriculture and Ministry of Public Works and Transport.