Blue Deal - Abbay (Ethiopia)

Improved water allocation and water quality

Background

In Ethiopia water resources are scarce in dry periods and demands are expected to increase, partly because of population pressure. The development of integrated water resources management (IWRM) is necessary for managing the limited water resources in a sustainable manner. Cooperation between the relatively young ABA and World Waternet started in 2014 with support of the NWB fund (see: finalized project in Abbay) . This cooperation was aimed at basic support on river basin management planning and data management. This Blue Deal project will continue and further professionalise this partnership.

Our impact

The ABA will have the instruments to facilitate integrated and equitable water distribution (in two critical sub basins with a substantial potential for irrigation and hydropower). Improved basin information management will result in a better IWRM to meet demands for water in the area. The ABA will have linkages and strategic alliances with key actors to provide for improved water management. A big step forward towards integrated, equitable, resilient and sustainable water management.

Activities

• Hydrological Basin Information Management (HIS-BIS) and water quality activities
• Water Allocation Plan development for two critical sub basins and pilot study payment system for one sub basin

Results

• Water resources management implemented.
• Increased water-use efficiency across all sectors and water stress reduced in the ABA by implementation of water allocation plans.
• Integrated water resources management incorporated within ABA and most relevant stakeholders.