Addis Ababa: The House of People’s Representatives (HPR) has unanimously approved a draft proclamation on Water Bodies Boundary Determination, Development, and Maintenance. The approval came during the House’s 31st regular session of the 4th parliamentary year, where members discussed the objectives and provisions of the draft proclamation.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, Deputy Chairman of the Standing Committee on Water, Irrigation, Lowland, and Environmental Development Affairs, Aweke Amzaye, presented the committee’s report and recommendations. He emphasized that the proclamation aims to define the boundaries of water bodies, safeguard them from pollution, and ensure their sustainable use for national benefit.
The legislation is aligned with Ethiopia’s green legacy and other environmental initiatives. Aweke stressed that the proclamation is expected to strengthen the development, protection, and maintenance of water resources. The provisions within the legislation outline clear procedures for defining water body boundaries and address enforcement mechanisms for violations, particularly concerning pollution.
Aweke specifically noted provisions that regulate industrial effluents, ensuring that both existing and new industries do not harm aquatic ecosystems. The legislation is seen as a significant step towards achieving sustainable and environmentally friendly management of Ethiopia’s water resources.