International Waters learning Exchange & Resource Network

4.2 - Development of the SAP

Introduction

The SAP is a negotiated policy document that should be endorsed at the highest level of all relevant sectors. It establishes clear priorities for action (for example, policy, legal, institutional reforms, or investments) to resolve the priority problems identified in the TDA. The preparation of a SAP should be a highly cooperative and collaborative process among the countries of the region.

SAP process.jpg

The strategic component of the SAP process has 2 key development phases:

1. Strategic Thinking:

  1. Defining the vision and drafting a vision statement
  2. Setting goals to achieve the vision and reduce the impact of the transboundary problems
  3. Brainstorming innovative ideas and opportunities to meet the goals
  4. Strategising the New Ideas, Opportunities and Solutions – Prioritising Alternatives

2. Strategic Planning:

  1. National and regional consultation processes
  2. Setting strategies for implementation
  3. Action planning - Setting actions, timescales, priorities and indicators
  4. Drafting the SAP
  5. Steps towards SAP implementation

The 2 phases outlined above take the SAP process from a water system focus to a national focus and then back to a system focus. This process needs careful planning and is described in more detail in the Planning the TDA/SAP process section.