Koudougou: Burkina Faso has initiated a National Coordination of Users of Natural Resources in the Volta Basin, marking a significant advancement in environmental preservation under the REWarD project.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the establishment of this coordination aligns with article 121 of the Volta Basin Water Charter, emphasizing shared and sustainable governance.
This development was announced during a workshop attended by 90 participants, including representatives from user associations, local authorities, and sector experts. The Ministry of the Environment, Water and Sanitation supervised the event. Burkina Faso joins Mali, Benin, and Ivory Coast in creating such an organization for the Volta Basin.
The 12 regions within the basin were represented, highlighting the project’s significance. The initiative aims to engage primary users in the management of natural resources to better organize and preserve the ecosystem. Adjara Ou©draogo/Kientega, representing the governor of the Centre-West region, emphasized the authorities’ dedication to the official recognition of the coordination.
Dibi Millogo, Deputy Executive Director of the Volta Basin Authority, highlighted the importance of involving local stakeholders to address issues such as pollution and unsuitable agricultural practices. He stressed the need for community involvement to adopt sustainable practices, as the basin holds potential in hydroelectricity, aquaculture, and agriculture.
Flora Dubary/Bationo, coordinator of the ABV national focal structure, noted that Burkina Faso already has similar structures for other basins. She emphasized the necessity of creating this coordination for the Volta Basin to integrate participatory principles and support the CNU’s dynamism.
Participant Amira David expressed enthusiasm for this initiative, noting its urgency in organizing against climate change and human impact on resources. She hoped for robust support from partners to enable the coordination’s mission.
The workshop concluded with the validation of mapping results, adoption of action and capacity building plans, and the election of the inaugural CNU executive board. These outcomes set the stage for collaborative resource management, crucial for the future of millions dependent on the Volta Basin.