Tumu: WRC Advocates Transboundary Cooperation for Global Water Security
By: Araphat Dimah
The Water Resources Commission has strongly advocated for transboundary cooperation between countries, and communities for global water security.
In a speech delivered during the commemoration of World Water Day at the Gateway Travellers Lodge, yesterday, March 22, 2024, in Tumu, Ing. Dr. Joachim Ayiiwe Abungba, the Basin Head of the Black Volta Basin Water Resources Commission, has emphasized the critical need for transboundary cooperation in managing water resources to ensure global water security.
His remarks underscored the theme of this year’s celebration, “Leveraging Water for Peace,” emphasizing the pivotal role of collaborative efforts in mitigating water-related conflicts and fostering sustainable development.
“Water has the power to start conflict or bring about peace. Tensions between communities and nations can arise when there is a lack of water, if it is contaminated, or people have uneven or no access to it,” Dr. Abungba stated.
He has also cited statistics, noting that “more than 3 billion people worldwide depend on water that crosses national borders,” emphasizing the urgency of international cooperation.
Furthermore, Dr. Abungba reiterated the Water Resources Commission’s commitment to fostering transboundary cooperation, particularly in the Black Volta Basin.
“WRC is the national focal point institution and facilitates dialogues towards establishing permanent mechanisms for transboundary water resources management”.
He therefore entreated that as the world grapples with mounting water challenges, the call for enhanced transboundary cooperation and community-led initiatives emerges as a beacon of hope for achieving water security and fostering global harmony.
Meanwhile, Hon. Fuseini Yakubu Batong, the Municipal Chief Executive for Sissala East Municipal Assembly, echoed similar sentiments in his address.
“Water can spark and intensify conflict when access is denied and usage unfairly shared,” Hon. Batong emphasized”.
He also commended the support of various stakeholders in enhancing access to potable water within the municipality.
Some stakeholders from diverse sectors at the durbar were the Fire Service, Community Water Systems, Pure Water Producers’ Association, Sissala East Agricultural Directorate and Immigration, as well as members of local communities like Sakalu and Nanchala.
The event served as a platform for dialogue and collaboration, reinforcing the collective resolve to leverage water as a catalyst for peace, prosperity, and sustainable development
