What we've learned
How do you implement IWRM? Through learning by doing, WANI has developed and demonstrated practical approaches to Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM). Based on an analysis of WANI's projects, a set of implementation principles was identified that can guide the application of IWRM in the field.
Implementation Principle 1: People
Recognise that people are the owners, actors, and direct beneficiaries of water projects. If stakeholders set the goals, projects are sure to address their top priorities.
Implementation Principle 2: Delivering results
Delivering Results on the ground. Projects need to solve problems in the daily life of communities. Results and their benefits need to be clear and make a tangible difference to overcoming priority problems.
Implementation Principle 3: Working across scales
Water cuts across geographic and institutional scales, from the irrigation furrow to the river basin. Decisions by water users at different scales impact others.
Implementation Principle 4: Learn and Innovate
As the world faces the challenges of climate change, the level of uncertainty will increase, requiring adaptation and innovation.
Implementation Principle 5: Field Focus
Focusing energy, organizational abilities and strengths outward to deliver help to actors working in the field is paramount, they are the ones who implement and empower real and lasting change…
Implementation Principle 6: Economic Investments
Interventions, such as programmes and projects, should compete by making a business case to justify investment. Financing of water management should reward those who look after the resource, and encourage equitable sharing of benefits…
Implementation Principle 7: Rights and Responsabilities
Cooperation and agreement on water management reform requires that all parties understand what is expected and what can be expected from others. Rights and responsibilities must be transparent, and people and institutions must be accountable…
Implementation Principle 8: Water as Politics
Water decisions are political. Rather than subsume water politics within a plan, decision making should incorporate political processes. Democratic legitimacy and energy then replaces technocratic pretense.
