IWMI unveils strategy to tackle water, climate challenges in East Africa

Mutitu Water Project chairman Joseph Kagiri opens a gate valve to check the water flow after launching an Sh8 million project, which includes borehole drilling, a solar-powered water system, and an extensive pipeline network, to ease water shortages in Karai, Nyakio, Ithanji, Migaita, Lokoi, Ngarengiro, Kiambariria, Hotline, Wamani, and Mairo Saba.[Photo/ Amos Kiarie]

As the realities of climate change increasingly strain East Africa's water systems, the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) has launched a new strategy aimed at securing water resources, building resilience, and boosting sustainable agriculture in the region.

At the core of the new strategy are three interconnected goals: mitigating water risks by preparing for and responding to current and future water-related challenges.

In addition, IWMI will focus on overcoming global inequalities, with a strong emphasis on gender equality, youth engagement, and social inclusion, as well as managing water sustainably to meet the growing and competing demands for freshwater across sectors.

The strategy also introduces four "transformational levers" to help accelerate impact: water data science, water governance, gender, youth, and social inclusion, and scaling, finance, and investment. These levers will harness tools such as artificial intelligence, foster improved governance across borders and sectors, and promote more equitable investment in water infrastructure.

Speaking during CGIAR's Science Week, IWMI's Director-General Mark Smith said the IWMI Strategy 2024-2030 is a major milestone in the institute's mission to address pressing climate and water issues through science, innovation, and inclusive partnerships.

"Water is at the heart of climate resilience, food security, and economic development," said Smith. "Our strategy is a roadmap for research and innovation to improve how water is managed in East Africa. It marks a significant milestone in IWMI's mission to advance water security, climate resilience, and sustainable agricultural practices."

Smith emphasised the importance of collaborative and data-driven approaches, noting that IWMI's work will be grounded in science-backed solutions co-developed with governments, communities, and other stakeholders.

Abdulkarim H. Seid, IWMI's Regional Representative for East Africa, reaffirmed its commitment to transforming the way water is managed in East Africa.

"The challenges facing East Africa, as with other parts of the world, require collective action," said Seid.

He further stated that, as climate and population pressures mount, the institute hopes its research, innovation, and collaborative model can help ensure a more secure and sustainable water future for all.

"The strategy will guide IWMI's work in the region, ensuring that we co-design and co-develop solutions with local communities, governments, academia, the private sector, and other key partners to build resilient and innovative water systems for a sustainable future," he added.

The launch event brought together a diverse array of stakeholders-including government officials, research institutions, NGOs, and private sector leaders-who participated in expert panels and interactive sessions to discuss innovative approaches for sustainable water management.

These discussions also explored how IWMI's strategy aligns with national and regional development plans, offering opportunities for partnership and investment.