Realising trade in virtual water

One approach to development might seek to replace her suppliers with local farmers, but Southern Africa's water managers are considering the merits of reinforcing a regional trade in "virtual water".

Depending on the season, Monyi sells watermelons, tomatoes, potatoes, onions from the back of her truck.  The 44-year-old makes the trip to South Africa each week to purchase vegetables for sale; she says she buys about P10,000 worth of stock ($1430), and makes a profit of between P3,000 and P4,000.