This initiative is part of the REWarD – Volta River Basin Project, funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), which aims to reverse ecosystem and water resource degradation trends in the basin.
Why a Parliamentarians’ Network?
The Volta Basin, shared by six countries, faces major challenges in sustainable water governance. To strengthen political cooperation and support the ratification of the Water Charter adopted in 2019, VBA and its partners launched the creation of a transitional network of parliamentarians. This network will pave the way for the establishment of the Inter-Parliamentary Committee (IPC), scheduled for 2027.
The workshop aims to :
- Validate the founding texts of the Parliamentarians’ Network;
- Share governance challenges and key provisions of the Water Charter;
- Define a roadmap for setting up the network and the future IPC;
- Identify capacity-building needs for parliamentarians.
Inclusive and participatory approach
The workshop brought together 25 participants, including parliamentarians from the six member states, VBA representatives, and GWP-WA. Through presentations, debates, and group sessions, participants amended and validated the statutes and internal regulations of the Network, developed a capacity-building plan, and agreed on a clear roadmap for the transition toward the IPC.
Key Outcomes
- Validation of the founding texts of the Volta Basin Parliamentarians’ Network;
- Establishment of a provisional presidium to lead post-workshop activities;
- Adoption of a three-year action plan (2026–2028) to guide the transition process;
- Commitment from parliamentarians to advocate for the ratification of the Water Charter in all member states.
A milestone for regional water governance
This workshop marks a decisive step toward inclusive and coordinated governance of water resources in the Volta Basin. By strengthening the role of parliamentarians, VBA and GWP-WA are laying the foundation for a governance framework that promotes resilience and sustainable development across the region.