Members of the Wabi-Shebelle Basin Technical Committee evaluated the annual performance for the 2018 E.C. fiscal year.

Members of the Wabi-Shebelle Basin Technical Committee evaluated the annual performance for the 2018 E.C. fiscal year.

The discussion was led by Mr. Elias Hussein, Coordinator of the Wabi Shebelle Basin BAZAR-Net Project. He outlined the project's five core objectives: establishing a hydrological data system; ensuring adequate water supply for domestic and agricultural needs; mitigating the adverse effects of flooding; managing selected vulnerable watersheds to reduce the impacts of land degradation and loss; and protecting buffer zones.It was stated that focused attention has been given to strengthening the capacity of relevant agencies, technical administration, and regulatory bodies, as well as to establishing a comprehensive hydrological system for the Wabi Shebelle basin—integrating renewable energy use for various water applications and economic activities—and ensuring access to water and effective water management.
He also indicated that the project is working to ensure an adequate water supply for domestic and agricultural needs, as well as to mitigate the adverse effects of flooding.

Furthermore, Mr. Elias stated that extensive work has been carried out to mitigate the impacts of land degradation and pollution, including the management of selected vulnerable watersheds, the strengthening of built-up zone management, and the protection of buffer zones.

He explained that efforts have been undertaken to strengthen coordination capabilities and enhance the capacity of relevant agencies, as well as technical, administrative, and regulatory bodies.

It was also explained that efforts to develop solar (renewable) energy sources for various water-use purposes and other economic activities will continue to be intensified.

It was reported that this process faced various challenges, including poor stakeholder coordination, unrealistic project expectations, procurement delays, site-related disruptions and logistical hurdles, price hikes and inflated tender costs, the impact of climate change, and delayed rainfall that slowed down planting activities.

Meanwhile, the Wabi Shebelle Basin Authority stated that it has endeavoured to resolve the challenges it faced by assigning personnel, enhancing community participation, strengthening stakeholder collaboration—including by aligning interventions with similar IWRM projects—ensuring continuous monitoring and administrative support, and increasing the involvement of senior leadership to expedite decision-making.

The technical committee held extensive discussions based on the presented plan implementation report; they emphasized that, to ensure future work achieves its intended goals, it is essential to address identified shortcomings—particularly gaps related to procurement—and to work collaboratively with renewed strength.