Blue Deal Upper Tana Basin

This project is centered on improving water allocation and integrated water resources management (IWRM) in two sub-catchments of Kenya's Upper Tana Basin, specifically focusing on the Thika River, which is vital for Nairobi's water supply. Phase I laid the groundwork by preparing for water allocation planning, introducing the Water Evaluation And Planning (WEAP) tool, and conducting surveys on water abstraction, pollution, and river health. Phase II builds on these efforts, introducing new objectives to address challenges from the first phase. Key themes include increased direct cooperation with diverse stakeholders, a stronger emphasis on climate adaptation strategies, promoting social inclusion in water management, and aligning project activities with broader national developments in water resource governance.

Through capacity building and knowledge transfer, we empower the Water Resources Authority and local partners, such as the Water Resource Users Associations (WRUAs) to effectively manage their water resources. This focuses on better use of IWRM tools, improving data and information management at both the basin and headquarters, carrying out catchment restoration and protection, and boosting finance mobilization capabilities. Aspirations include upscaling successful interventions to other geographical areas and extending the project’s scope to encompass critical water quality and quantity issues. Ultimately, the project strives for more equitable and sustainable water resource management, benefiting both the environment and the communities reliant on the Upper Tana Basin's water.