MOYALE DECLARATION
HIGH-LEVEL STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT FORUM ON WATER GOVERNANCE HELD AT TULLA REGENCY MOYALE DECLARATION.
The high-level consultative stakeholder engagement forum on water governance convened key leaders, experts, and stakeholders in Moyale at Tulla Regency Resort, underscoring the critical importance of collaborative approaches to sustainable water management by the Department of Water, Marsabit Water and Sewerage Company and partners. The forum that culminated with the address by H.E the Governor, Mohamud Ali, brought together representatives from government agencies (WRA, WASREB), County Department of Water and Agriculture, non-governmental organizations (PACIDA) and partners (HoAGW4RP).
In his keynote address, the H.E the Governor Mohamud emphasized the pressing need for integrated water resource management to address challenges such as water scarcity and ravaging drought caused by the climate change. He noted that effective governance frameworks are essential to ensuring equitable access to clean and safe water for all residents.
“Water is a lifeline for our communities and a cornerstone for economic development. This forum is an opportunity to strengthen partnerships and develop actionable solutions for our water-related challenges,” said the Governor.
The forum featured interactive panel discussions and breakout sessions, allowing stakeholders to share experiences and propose innovative service delivery model that addresses current and future water demands amidst a growing population and unpredictable weather patterns, reviewing existing water governance policies and identifying areas for improvement such as strengthening WRUA and highlighting the importance of collaborations between the public and private sectors to finance and implement water projects.
Horn of Africa Ground water resilience project (HoAGW4RP) coordinator and the team of consultants for HoAGW4RP, WAREB, WRA and the departments presented case studies showcasing successful water management initiatives from other regions, offering valuable insights and lessons applicable to the county’s unique context.
Commitments and Resolutions
The forum concluded with a consensus on several key action points:
- Establishing a county-level water governance task force to coordinate efforts and monitor progress for WRUA
- Prioritizing investments in water infrastructure, including dams, reservoirs, and water treatment facilities.
- Strengthening data collection and sharing to inform evidence-based decision-making.
- Enhancing public awareness campaigns to promote water conservation and responsible usage.
- Advocating for increased budgetary allocations for water management in the county’s fiscal plans.
Participants expressed optimism about the forum’s outcomes, praising its inclusivity and focus on practical solutions. “It is encouraging to see diverse stakeholders coming together with a shared commitment to safeguarding our water resources,” said chairperson MARWASCO Board of Director Surveyor Josephe Guyo Halakhe.
The County Governor pledged to take a leadership role in implementing the forum’s resolutions, reiterating his administration’s dedication to addressing water challenges. This forum marks a significant step toward fostering a unified approach to water governance, ensuring sustainable development and improved quality of life for all county residents.
STORY BY
Jillo Dida Jillo
Public Relation Officer
Marsabit Water and Sewerage Company
Date: 16th Jan, 2025
