Developing a framework for a sustainable water allocation plan in the Tana river basin, Kenya

Abstract

Sustainable and equitable water allocation is among the key principles of Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM). However, developing a water allocation plan for the Tana basin, one of the most important river basins in Kenya, is all but a simple task for stakeholders and policy-makers. In fact, the increasing pressure on surface and groundwater resources and the numerous drivers of change such as population growth, climate change and new infrastructures like dams and irrigation schemes, pose a huge challenge to the allocation of water. In 2009, the Water Resources Management Authority (WRMA), which is the only governmental institution entitled to regulate water resources in the country, developed a strategy to ensure the conservation and protection of the basin as well as to guarantee the participation of the stakeholders in water resources management and governance. However, the objectives set are only partially met due to the lack of appropriate data, financial and human resources as well as institutional capacity. For this reason, WRMA, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the relevant stakeholders are currently reviewing and improving this strategy in order to provide concrete and feasible solutions to the challenges posed by the Tana River basin. Among others, priority should be given to enhancing cooperation among the stakeholders, to empowering the Water Resources Users Associations (WRUAs), to developing sub-catchment management plans and pilot areas for water allocation along with setting the reserve quantity in order to meet the basic environmental and human needs. This thesis investigates the challenges of the Tana catchment area and the key mechanisms and principles of water allocation. It further analyzes the catchment management strategy that was developed in 2009 to regulate water resources in the Tana basin and highlights its strengths and weaknesses. Based on scientific evidence and socio-political considerations, this thesis provides recommendations for the review of the Tana Catchment Area Management Strategy. In particular, the aim is to provide stakeholders and policy-makers with feasible solutions and new ideas to ensure equitable water allocation planning among users and regions as well as providing sustainable water resources management.8