ABSTRACT
Development theory is tested against the empirically derived physical and socio-economic realities of the Ta’iz situation. This chapter deals with a summary of the economic context which underlies the social adaptations to the water shortage and provides an actor-oriented analysis of the actions of the powerful in determining water allocation in the Ta’iz area. It examines the existing legal framework in Yemen regarding water transfers from the specific standpoint of the issues and the existing institutions in the context of their appropriateness to facilitating water transfers. The problems of water resources management and efficient water allocation in Ta’iz have not occurred in isolation, but rather have attracted a considerable amount of interest and money from the development community. The chapter considers the concept specific aspects of economic progress, equity provision and environmental protection in the water sector in the contexts of both debates in the development/donor communities and their involvement in Ta’iz.
