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This paper summarises BASIS research on the current state of decentralisation processes in Malawi with a focus on water resources.The following specific points and recommendations emerge from the policy review and case study:much will need to be done to draw reforms in Malawi’s environmental sector to people’s attention. Funds will have to be identified for training and capacity-building at all levels to offset the legacy of top-down planning and implementation that until recently was the normbefore implementing laws and policies which establish a relationship between individual communities or user groups and the Minister to negotiate resource management agreement, agreements should be reached for greater coordination across ministriesthe new focus on productive uses of water and catchment management might assist the Ministry of Water Development in gaining more voice in water resources management and larger budgetary allocationshow will Catchment Management Authority functions be coordinated with district planning? What sustainable funding base will support Catchment Management Authorities?a broadened definition of stakeholders and more democratic processes of selection may make the shift of responsibilities from the Ministry of Water Development to the National Water Resources Board and Catchment Management Authorities more effective. Representatives from other user groups such as women should be addedmany rural people recognize a right to water which is not expressed solely in economic terms. Alternative understandings of value might serve as strong rationales and motivators for conserving trees, watersheds, water sources and other natural resourcesMalawi could set an example in the region by expanding the voice and representation of women in the water reform process. Women play a major role in agricultural production and marketing and they rely on a wide array of natural resources as well. They should be featured in the new water policy and efforts should be made to include them in newly-formed decision-making bodies at all levels
