Vanuatu National Water Strategy 2008–2018. Country/Territory Vanuatu Document type Date 2008 Source FAO, FAOLEX Subject Water Keyword Policy/planning Sustainable development Sustainable use Institution Integrated management Irrigation Monitoring Water quality standards Water supply Agricultural development Freshwater resources management Ecosystem preservation Risk assessment/management Environmental audit Geographical area ASIA AND THE PACIFIC, Least Developed Countries, Melanesia, Oceania, Small Island Developing States, South Pacific Abstract The National Water Strategy for the Republic of Vanuatu seeks to steer and direct the efforts of the Department of Geology, Mines and Water Resources regarding sustainable development of the water sector. It deals with matters related to finances, human resources, institutions and operations. At the institutional level, the strategy proposes a major change in the role of the Department of Geology, Mines and Water Resources from that of service provider to main proponent and facilitator of a new integrated water resource management approach. This will require taking a holistic, integrated, coordinated and decentralised approach, involving collaboration with communities, the private sector and local government stakeholders. Key operational elements of this Strategy are the progressive devolution of responsibility, authority, and resources for water resources management down to provincial government level and community involvement in the planning, management and monitoring of water catchment use. Full text English Website nab.vu