Ethiopia, Kenya and Burundi progress on integrated approach

GWP Ethiopia launched pilot projects in the Berki and Messena watersheds to promote IWRM, establish a framework for broader stakeholder participation, and enhance grassrootslevel water management practices.

The federal government is now taking steps to manage water resources across hydrological boundaries and is creating River Basin Organisations (RBOs). GWP Ethiopia provided technical support in establishing the Abbay RBO as a pilot project.

Kenya completed its IWRM plan in March 2008 with support from GWP’s Partnership for Africa’s Water Development and a broad range of stakeholders. GWP-EA helped the Ministry of Water and Irrigation to develop a plan that was acceptable to the government and water sector stakeholders.

In addition, Kenyan agencies realise that there is a need for increased financing of the water sector, and a need to mainstream IWRM and the Water Efficiency Plan into poverty eradication plans.

Burundi identified the need to address water resources management, climate change and the UN Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). In response, GWP-EA facilitated a multi-stakeholder process informed by thematic groups on tourism, water resources, energy, sanitation, transport, environment and water supply. As a result, over 20 organisations signed up for accreditation to GWP Burundi and government interest has increased.

A communication strategy to support an integrated approach is being implemented.