This article offers an approach to the study of the evolution, spread and uptake of integrated water resources management (IWRM). Specifically, it looks at the <italic>flow</italic> of IWRM as an idea in international and national fora, its <italic>translation and adoption</italic> into national contexts, and the on-the-ground...</italic>

This article traces the history of integrated water resources management (IWRM) in South Africa since the 1970s. It examines IWRM according to its three common pillars, which are also reflected in South Africa's National Water Act: economic efficiency, environmental sustainability, and equity....