By Aoma Keziah,
The International Water Management Institute (IWMI) unveiled its new Strategy 2024–2030 themed “Propelling Change, during a dynamic multistakeholder workshop held at the CGIAR Science Week at the United Nations Campus in Nairobi, bringing together key stakeholders to discuss the future of water security, climate resilience, and sustainable development in Kenya and the broader East African region.
Speaking during the launch, Principal Secretary State Department for Irrigation Ephanthus Kimotho, applauded IWMI’s strategy as timely and aligned with Kenya’s vision 2030 agenda, reaffirming the government’s commitment together.
“This launch of IWMI’s Strategy 2024–2030 could not have come at a better time. It represents a strong commitment to science based solutions, inclusive development, and regional collaboration values that resonate deeply with the goals of our Ministry and the Kenya Vision 2030. As a ministry, reaffirm our commitment to working hand in hand with IWMI and all stakeholders here today,” he remarked.
IWMI Director General, Mark Smith, emphasized on the need for Collaborative, data-driven solutions to address water and climate challenges.
“Water is at the heart of climate resilience, food security and economic development. Our strategy is a roadmap for research and innovation to improve how water is managed in East Africa. It marks a significant milestone in IWMI’s mission to advance water security, climate resilience, and sustainable agricultural practices across East Africa. Through this strategy, we are committed to working with partners to implement science-backed solutions to address pressing water-related challenges, improve livelihoods, and support sustainable development in Kenya and across the broader East Africa region,” he stated.
The newly launched strategy outlines IWMI’s vision for harnessing the power of water to support climate-smart agriculture, equitable water governance, and sustainable ecosystems across Kenya and the broader East African region. With climate change intensifying water related challenges, the strategy aims to provide targeted research, policy guidance, and innovations that empower communities and institutions to adapt and thrive.
IWMI’s Regional Representative for East Africa, Abdulkarim H. Seid, highlighted the regional priorities and how the strategy will contribute to sustainable development goals by leveraging cutting-edge research and partnerships.
“The challenges facing East Africa, as with other parts of the world, require collective action. The strategy will guide IWMI’s work in the region, ensuring that we co-design and co-develop solutions with local communities, governments, academia, private sector and other key partners to build resilient and innovative water systems for a sustainable future,” he explained.
Held during the CGIAR Science Week, IWMI’s strategy launch event convened key stakeholders from government officials, research institutions, development partners, private sector and NGOs and farmer organizations, institutions, who participated panel discussions, for knowledge exchange and collaborations.
Mt Kenya Times