Rwanda National IWRM conference convenes with “leaving no-one behind” theme
Kigali, 20 March 2019-Rwanda’s Ministry of Environment through Water for Growth Programme has convened third Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) conference which is held annually to create an opportunity for water users and for professional people and technicians involved in managing Rwanda’s water resources, to meet, exchange knowledge and best practices, and discuss ways forward to meet the water challenges ahead.
The IWRM conference convened under the “Leave no one Behind” Theme which is also dedicated to the International World Water Day usually celebrated on 22nd March every year.
The 2019 Conference brought together participants from Catchment Committees, local authorities, farmer representatives, relevant professionals from Government, parastatal agencies, and private sector companies (e.g. mines or agriculture), representatives of relevant projects, and scientists from academia also with high level Government and Netherlands Embassy officials.
Speaking at the opening of the 2019 IWRM conference, Rwanda’s Minister of Environment Dr. Vincent Biruta reminded participants that water resources are facing serious challenges that need everyone’s response to ensure efficiency use.
Dr. Biruta said “”Water resources face demands from domestic water users, farmers, industries, energy suppliers and ecosystems with all competing to satisfy their needs.”
He noted that “Water needs to be used efficiently to meet demands. This is the only way we can leave no one behind, today and into the future.”
Dr. Biruta highlighted that “”By working together, we can build a water secure and water resilient country. This year’s IWRM conference is your opportunity to make a difference – to expand your networks, your knowledge and your impact.”
On behalf of the Kingdom of Netherlands which has invested much resource in Rwanda’s Water Resources Management through Water for Growth Programme, Ambassador Frederique de Man said “”The Netherlands is so pleased to have played a role in advancing Integrated Water Resources Management in Rwanda and we look forward to continued cooperation.”
Although, the Water for Growth programme which is a Rwanda-Netherlands Partnership Project is nearing its end, Ambassador Frederique promised a continuous support to strengthening institutional capacity as Rwanda’s move is to use IWRM approach as the most relevant solution for the sustainable management of its water resources.
The 2019 IWRM Conference themes include: Water quality; Flood management, Water productivity/Water use efficiency, and Spatial (catchment) planning.
Moreover, side events were organized with focus on investing in water resources management, water use, such as irrigation, and institutional development.
