At the Laikipia Wildlife Forum (LWF), we believe in the power of collaboration to drive positive change in our communities. This is why we collaborated with the Water Resources Authority (WRA) to host a transformative training session aimed at bolstering the sustainability and efficiency of community water projects (CWPs) in Laikipia North.
Held on the 12th and 13th of March 2024 at the Constituency Development Funds (CDF) offices in Kiwanja Ndege, our training drew enthusiastic participation from members of various CWPs, including Kiwanja Ndege borehole, Ol-kinyei borehole, Arijiju borehole, and Bokish borehole.
Our training sessions kicked off with insightful discussions on governance and leadership within CWPs. Participants actively engaged in identifying governance and leadership gaps specific to their projects, setting the stage for targeted interventions. Additionally, representatives from the WRA provided invaluable insights into policies on groundwater management, enriching participants’ understanding of regulatory frameworks.
Recognizing the critical role of resource mobilization and financial management in project success, we delved into these aspects comprehensively. Led by our team member, Peter Mathenge, discussions focused on effective strategies for mobilizing resources and garnering community support for water projects. Furthermore, Solomon, alongside WRA representatives, guided participants through the development and review of operating budgets.
As the training drew to a close, participants collaborated to develop action plans that will guide their future endeavours. A key focus of these plans was the legalization of boreholes, ensuring the acquisition of necessary permits and certificates for compliance. Additionally, participants committed to developing operating budgets for each project and exploring joint resource mobilization efforts to ensure the continued success and sustainability of CWPs in the region.
Beyond equipping participants with essential skills and knowledge, our training fostered a sense of collaboration and shared responsibility among community members. With actionable plans in place, we are confident that the impact of this training will enhance water resource management and contribute to the sustainable development of our region.