Rethinking Water Governance for a Resilient Future
Water is the lifeblood of Africa, sustaining its vibrant ecosystems, thriving communities, and burgeoning economies. Yet, the continent faces an increasingly complex challenge in managing this precious resource amidst the growing impacts of climate change, population growth, and competing demands. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the African Union’s Africa Water Vision for 2025 provide a blueprint for a sustainable water future, but translating these lofty ambitions into tangible action remains an ongoing struggle.
Enter the ‘Unlocking Resilient Benefits from African Water Resources’ (RESBEN) project, a large-scale initiative funded by the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) that is pioneering a new approach to water governance in Africa. This collaborative endeavor, led by the African Research University Alliance (ARUA) Water Centre of Excellence and partnering with universities in the UK and across the continent, is empowering local communities to become the sustainable custodians of their water resources.
“Rather than bringing science from outside, we empowered the farmers. We brought them on board and told them that they are representative of the community, while also including the Legal Office, the Department of Agriculture, and so on. I feel that little by little, sustainability will be ensured through this empowerment.” – Researcher, Makerere University, Uganda
The Adaptive Systemic Approach to Water Governance
The RESBEN project’s unique approach, known as the Adaptive Systemic Approach, places local communities at the heart of the research process. This methodology follows four key steps:
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Stakeholder Engagement: Researchers work closely with diverse stakeholders, including community members, local authorities, and sector experts, to jointly identify the pressing issues affecting water management in their region.
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Adaptive Planning: Stakeholders then engage in a collaborative process to create a shared vision for water governance, outlining clear objectives and a roadmap for achieving this vision.
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Knowledge Building and Sharing: Researchers facilitate a dynamic exchange of knowledge, encouraging stakeholders to rethink their approach to water management through Strategic Adaptive Management conversations.
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Implementation and Adaptation: Agreed-upon activities are then implemented, with participants continuously monitoring, evaluating, reflecting, and adapting their approach to realize their shared vision.
This holistic, community-driven approach has been instrumental in addressing the unique water challenges faced by urban and rural communities across seven African countries: Nigeria, Uganda, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Senegal, Tanzania, and South Africa.
Empowering Communities: Success Stories from the RESBEN Project
Groundwater Management in Lagos, Nigeria
Researchers at the University of Lagos worked closely with local government representatives to explore innovative solutions for improving groundwater management in the rapidly growing city of Lagos. By involving community members in the research process, the team was able to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges they face, such as the overextraction and pollution of groundwater sources.
Through this collaborative approach, the project team was able to develop targeted interventions that empower local residents to become active stewards of their water resources. This includes initiatives to enhance community-based groundwater monitoring, promote water conservation practices, and support the implementation of decentralized water treatment systems.
Pollution Control in Kampala, Uganda
In Uganda, the RESBEN team at Makerere University identified critical pollution-related issues affecting the country’s iconic Lake Victoria, particularly the dispersion of contaminants into the lake during the rainy season. Rather than relying solely on top-down solutions, the researchers took a community-centered approach, engaging with local farmers, government agencies, and other stakeholders to address the root causes of pollution.
“Rather than bringing science from outside, we empowered the farmers. We brought them on board and told them that they are representative of the community, while also including the Legal Office, the Department of Agriculture, and so on. I feel that little by little, sustainability will be ensured through this empowerment.” – Researcher, Makerere University, Uganda
By fostering collaborative dialogue and knowledge sharing, the project team was able to develop comprehensive pollution control strategies that harness the collective expertise and commitment of the local community. This included the introduction of innovative farming practices, the strengthening of environmental regulations, and the establishment of community-based monitoring and enforcement mechanisms.
Participatory Governance in the Akagera River Basin, Rwanda
In Rwanda, the University of Rwanda team focused on strengthening participatory governance in the Akagera River catchment, an area facing increasing threats from erosion and urban pollution. By bringing together diverse stakeholders, including local authorities, community representatives, and environmental experts, the researchers initiated crucial conversations about the restoration and protection of this vital water source.
Through this collaborative process, the project team was able to empower local communities to become active participants in the decision-making and implementation of water management strategies. This included the establishment of community-based monitoring and feedback systems, as well as the development of nature-based solutions to address water quality issues.
Embracing Nature-Based Solutions in South Africa
Researchers at the University of Cape Town in South Africa explored the potential of nature-based solutions to address the challenge of water contamination. By organizing workshops for local farmers and other stakeholders, the team was able to initiate discussions about practical ways to remove pollution from rivers and streams.
“Probably the scariest thing for us from a science perspective is how do we go beyond the factory fence and incorporate greater collaboration. This is the toolbox around the water hubs: bringing local authorities and neighbours together. This helped to create an enabling environment, demonstrating possibilities, creating inspiration and initiating collaboration and co-creation.” – Researcher, University of Cape Town, South Africa
The project’s emphasis on community engagement and co-creation enabled the development of locally tailored, sustainable solutions that leverage the power of natural ecosystems. This approach not only improved water quality but also fostered a greater sense of ownership and stewardship among the local community.
Embracing the Power of Community Engagement
The RESBEN project’s unique approach to water governance has demonstrated the transformative power of community engagement and the co-creation of knowledge. By empowering local stakeholders to become active participants in the research and decision-making process, the project has been able to develop and implement water management strategies that are truly responsive to the needs and aspirations of the communities they serve.
As the African continent continues to grapple with the complex challenges of water scarcity, pollution, and climate change, the lessons learned from the RESBEN project offer a compelling blueprint for a more sustainable and equitable future. By fostering a deeper sense of community ownership and responsibility, this innovative initiative is paving the way for a new era of water governance in Africa – one where local communities are the driving force behind the sustainable management of this precious resource.
To learn more about the RESBEN project and its impact, please visit the Joint Action for Water website, where you can find a wealth of resources and success stories from across the African continent.
