Africa's International Rivers: An Economic Perspective (Directions in Development)

More than 60 international rivers traverse the continent of Africa. As populations and economies grow, these rivers need to be developed and managed in order to meet the needs of the African people. The fundamental challenge in developing these shared waters will be to do so equitably and in an environmentally, socially, and economically sustained manner.

Part I of this book provides a broad overview of the numerous shared rivers in Africa and offers some insights into riparian dynamics and the feasibility of cooperative management. Part II assesses the economics of international rivers and explores the links between water resources management and economic growth and poverty. It also focuses on the concept of water as an economic good and the implications this has for management. Part III explores the challenges of cooperative, transboundary management.