Monthly Report Global Water Partnership

March 2012

Table of contents NewsFlow April 2012 ............................................................................................................................................. 2 CARIBBEAN ................................................................................................................................................................ 7 CENTRAL AMERICA .................................................................................................................................................... 18 CENTRAL AND EASTERN EUROPE .................................................................................................................................. 23 CENTRAL ASIA AND CAUCASUS .................................................................................................................................... 26 CENTRAL AFRICA ....................................................................................................................................................... 29 EASTERN AFRICA ....................................................................................................................................................... 30 MEDITERRANEAN ...................................................................................................................................................... 32 SOUTH AMERICA ....................................................................................................................................................... 32 SOUTH ASIA ............................................................................................................................................................. 35

Global Water Partnership (GWP), Global Secretariat, Drottninggatan 33, SE-111 51 Stockholm, Sweden Phone: +46 (0)8 522 126 30, Fax: + 46 (0)8 522 126 31, e-mail: gwp@gwp.org

Green Box Text

Water Governance and Financing

New publication: More information and download.

http://www.gwp.org/gwp-in-action/News-and-Activities/Linking-

Good-Water-Governance-And-Financing/

NewsFlow April 2012 El Salvador Water Bill

Goes to Congress

To celebrate World Water Day, the President of El Salvador through the Minister of Environment and Natural Resources, presented the General Water Bill to the National Congress on the 22nd

of March. The Law recognizes the human right to water. GWP El Salvador has been advocating for this bill for several years.

Read more.

El Salvador's water resources are highly polluted. It is estimated that 90 percent of surface water is contaminated, which is partly due to an absence of municipal wastewater treatment. The country also suffers from water scarcity during the dry season, and conflicts among users. There have been various efforts to reform the water sector and to create a new legal framework since the mid-1990s. The current water reform in El Salvador has been led by the Technical Secretariat of the Presidency and the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources with participation of all 13 government institutions related to water. The process has included participation of civil society and different stakeholders

, a process which has been an important contribution of GWP and other networks, who have all been advocating for this cause for several years.

The General Water Bill was presented to the public on the 28th of March at an event organized by the Ministry of Environment.

It is expected that the Water Bill will be approved by the National Congress shortly.

Stakeholder Consultations in Bugesera Transboundary Basin shared by Rwanda and Burundi

Within the framework of implementing the climate change related commitments of the Sharm el-Sheikh Declaration on Water and Sanitation, GWP and AMCOW are implementing the Water Climate Development programe (WACDEP). The WACDEP aims to support African countries develop no/low regrets Water Security and Climate Resilience Investment Strategies, Plans and projects, and promote the integration of water security and climate resilience into national development plans.

Read more.

http://www.gwp.org/en/WACDEP/NEWS-AND-EVENTS/News-Archive/WACDEP-kicks-off-with-Stakeholder-Consultations-in-the-local-Bugesera-Transboundary-Basin-shared-by-Rwanda-and-Burundi/

The European Commission is supporting a Project aimed at strengthening regional cooperation for the sustainable management of transboundary waters in Africa, through programmatic and institutional strengthening of the African Network of Basin Organisations (ANBO), under the overall framework of the African Ministers’ Council on Water (AMCOW). The inception phase is expected to take 12 months, starting this year. The project will be implemented by the African Network of Basin Organisations in partnership with the Global Water Partnership.

Strengthening institutions for transboundary water resources management in Africa

Read more.

Representatives from GWP worldwide participated actively in the celebrations on 22 March of GWP contributes to Major International Water Events in March

World Water Day in addition to the 6th World Water Forum in Marseille.

GWP has launched a survey to collect feedback from those of you who use GWP's IWRM ToolBox. We want to know what to improve and how. The survey is available in English, Spanish, French and Russian. Go to survey. Deadline is 30 April 2012.

Survey on ToolBox Use

http://www.gwptoolbox.org/index.php?option=com_jquarks4s

GWP is a network of more than 2,500 institutional Partners. Here is an interview with with Meet Our Partners

Mr. Firdaus Ali, Jakarta Water Supply Regulatory Body (JWSRB). Read more about benefits of being a GWP Partner. Get involved. Join our network! Follow GWP and Join Us To hear about new publications and other news before it is published in NewsFlow, join us on Facebook, Twitter, and subscribe to our blog. Social Media logos ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ GWP People Mr Patrick Safari is the new regional coordinator for GWP Eastern Africa. Mr Kidanemariam Jembere Tiruneh is the new Regional Programme Manager for GWP Eastern Africa GWP Slovakia appointed a new Chair, Ms. Elena Fatulova. GWP in the news Water scarcity to drive conflict, hit food and energy –experts (Reuters AlertNet) http://www.trust.org/alertnet/news/water-scarcity-to-drive-conflict-hit-food-and-energy-experts The Global Water Systems Project article by GWP Executive Secretary http://www.gwsp.org/fileadmin/documents_news/Global_Water_News_No._11_web.pdf Water quality questioned in Venezuela (March 19)

National newspaper: Últimas noticias http://www.clippingdigital.com/email/detalle.php?num=6635470024&alt=2776,600,600,66354700242&cl=361 GWP Venezuela promotes integrated water management (March 19) National news website: Noticiero Digital http://www.noticierodigital.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=851016 Una semana para conmemorar el Día Mundial del Agua (March 19) National informative website: Círculo ambiental http://www.circuloambiental.net/noticias/semanadelagua2012.htm Cine y Ponencia para encontrarnos desde el tema vital del Agua (April 1st) Blogspot: Ecología activa

http://ecologiactiva.blogspot.com/

Gozo's water consumption to reduce with Alter Aqua project (Gozo News) Students learn how to gauge water quality (New Straits Times) Fashola: There Is Water To Drink (Leadership Newspapers) Strategy needed to mitigate threat of global shortages (gulfnews.com) SK TTDI 2 Celebrates World Water Day 2012 through River Water Awareness Programme (Bernama) Water: Cause for War in Coming Decades? (Sci-Tech Today) US intel: water a cause for war in coming decades http://www.kval.com/news/national/US-intel-water-a-cause-for-war-in-coming-decades-143920536.html

(Kval)

US intel: water a cause for war in coming decades The Seattle Times US intel: water a cause for war in coming decades The Associated Press More news in our Press Room.

Jamaica’s experience of water utility reform about dealing with water sector reform (#415)

GWP IWRM ToolBox

http://www.gwptoolbox.org/index.php?option=com_case&id=303&Itemid=6 Coming events 25-26 April 2012, Third workshop on water and adaptation to climate change in transboundary basins: Making adaptation work, Geneva, Switzerland http://www.unece.org/fileadmin/DAM/env/documents/2012/wat/workshops/Transboundary_adaptation_april/information_notice_final.pdf and http://www.mediaterre.org/europe/actu,20120404171151.html

1-4 May 2012 Water–Energy–Food Security, Winnipeg, Canada

http://www.iisd.org/wic/research/governance/water_energy.aspx

13-18 May 2012, IWA World Congress on Water, Climate and Energy 2012, Dublin, Ireland, http://iwa-wcedublin.org 31 May 2012, Symposium on Integrated Water Resource Management, Beirut, Lebanon http://www.aut.edu/upcoming-events/437-may-31st-conference-on-integrated-water-resources-management-in-lebanon.html 20-24 May 2012, 4th

Africa Water Week, Cairo, Egypt

22-25 May 2012, Green Week in Brussels is dedicated to water,

http://ec.europa.eu/environment/greenweek/

1-3 May 2012, Mekong2Rio International Conference on Transboundary River Basin Management, Phuket, Thailand www.mrcmekong.org 5-8 June 2012, Global Symposium, The 1997 UN Watercourses Convention – What Relevance in the 21st Century?, University of Dundee, Scotland, UK, : http://www.dundee.ac.uk/water/unwc/ 11-14 June, 2012, 3rd Annual International Law and Transboundary Freshwaters Workshop 2012, GWP/Dundee University, Scotland, UK, http://www.dundee.ac.uk/water/workshop/ 20-22 June 2012, Rio+20, United Nations Conference on Sustainable Developmen, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil 2-4 July 2012 Global Action Networks, MOPAN (Multi-Organisational Partnerships, Alliances and Networks),

Wageningen University, The Netherlands

New Resources 2012 UN-Water GLAAS report http://bit.ly/HCDfw5 Country Indicators, UN Water portal http://www.unwater.org/statistics_KWIP.html Revolve’s Special Report on Water Around the Mediterranean http://issuu.com/revolve-magazine/docs/water-mediterranean 4th World Water Development Report (UN Water, 2012): http://www.gwptoolbox.org/index.php?option=com_news Water Risk Filter http://www.waterriskfilter.panda.org/ Cap-Net courses at Rio +20 http://www.uncsd2012.org/rio20/index.php?menu=147 Assessing Health Impacts of Water Reuse in Agriculture in the Nile Delta http://water.worldbank.org/water/wpp Water Security And Climate Change: Challenges And Strategies

http://www.eurasiareview.com/01032012-water-security-and-climate-change-challenges-and-strategies/ New Survey Of The Effects Of Climate Change On India's Water Calls The Water Supply and Sanitation Council (WSSCC) is currently recruiting for the position of Executive Director http://www.wsscc.org/about-us/jobs

Water in the News

The emerging threats and risks related to water challenges Water Problems in a World of Insecurity City of New York awarded Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize 2012 http://www.leekuanyewworldcityprize.com.sg/ Water: The defining fulcrum in history and politics Daily Star Online 'Water distribution inequitable' The Hindu Caribbean Looks Ahead to Stave Off Fresh Water Scarcity Inter Press Service Effective Water Resource Management Practices The FINANCIAL Use of Innovative Technologies in GIS and Social Media to Better Manage Water ... PR Web (press release) Water future China Daily

GWP Regions CARIBBEAN Activities GWP-C Inspires Caribbean Journalists to Report on Water Global Water Partnership-Caribbean (GWP-C) through the launch of its “Media Awards on Water” on March 5th,

2012, sparked interest amongst several Caribbean media practitioners who were encouraged to report on various water issues.

The Media Awards, a first for GWP-C, was established to commemorate World Water Day 2012 in the region but to also continue GWP-C’s efforts to support and encourage Caribbean journalists to create greater awareness among the general public on critical water issues. The competition ended on April 10th

, 2012 and attracted print, radio and television entries from journalists from Antigua, Barbados, Grenada, Guyana and Jamaica. The submissions by the journalists revolved around the following topics:

• Water and Food Security • Water Financing • Water in Crisis • Water Conservation • Water for All • Water and Poverty • Water and Health • Population Growth and Increased Demand for Water • Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM)

The overall winner of GWP-C’s “Media Awards on Water” along with two other applicants into the competition will be announced at the end of April. GWP-C Lends Support to Grenada in Moving IWRM Policy Forward Within the past four years, the island of Grenada has made significant progress in working towards the sustainable management of its water resources. In 2007 a National Water Policy for Grenada that promotes Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) was adopted by cabinet and an implementation Plan for the Policy was completed in 2008. Additionally, a review of legislation with respect to Grenada’s water sector was initiated by the National Water and Sewerage Authority (NAWASA) in 2008. In 2009 the country established a National Water Information System and drafted its IWRM roadmap; there was also the implementation of Water Tariff Reform by the NAWASA in 2010. Despite all these developments and the endorsement of the Water Policy by government, the process of Policy implementation has slowed in recent years and has required renewed impetus to move forward. It is within this context that the Global Water Partnership-Caribbean (GWP-C) was requested to provide technical assistance to Grenada to identify the necessary next steps and processes required to put Grenada’s IWRM policy into action.

The GWP-C, through Water Resources Consultant Mrs. Marilyn Crichlow, undertook a review and assessment of Policy implementation in Grenada to date and of the Implementation Plan to identify any gaps and to make recommendations to guide future action. As part of its assistance, the GWP-C convened a workshop in Grenada on March 21st

, 2012 to bring stakeholders together to discuss the policy and its implementation.

GWP-C in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries and the National Water and Sewerage Authority (NAWASA) were able to bring together key stakeholders in Grenada from various government ministries; non-governmental organisations (NGOs); private entities; among other agencies, to determine an action plan for water policy and legislation implementation. Mrs. Marilyn Crichlow, provided stakeholders with a proposed action plan for water policy implementation and provided recommendations for the institutional and functional structure for a Water Resources Unit. Through discussions facilitated by Mrs. Crichlow and GWP-C Regional Coordinator, Ms. Avril Alexander, stakeholders gave their input and decisions to inform how Grenada should approach implementation and which aspects of implementation were of priority. The Consultant’s recommendations based on the analysis of the current situation in Grenada informed by the IWRM Stakeholder workshop will be forwarded to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries to assist in the implementation of the Water Policy for Grenada and the proposed Water Resources Unit. Additionally, GWP-C based on the informed recommendations by the Consultant will work towards taking the necessary steps to support Grenada in moving forward in the implementation of its Water Policy. GWP-C Talks IWRM at World Water Day Exhibition in Trinidad Global Water Partnership-Caribbean focused on educating the general public in Trinidad on Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) for World Water Day (WWD) 2012. GWP-C was able to do this through its participation in a national WWD exhibition put on by its partner the Water and Sewerage Authority (WASA) on April 21st,

2012.

Cross-section of stakeholders at the Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) Policy Implementation workshop in Grenada on March 21st,

The one-day event was unique in its own right, as it commemorated World Forestry Day (observed on March 21st each year), World Water Day (observed on March 22nd each year) and World Meteorological Day (observed on March 23rd

each year).

The WASA in collaboration with the Ministry of Housing and Environment and the Ministry of Public Utilities of Trinidad and Tobago were able to bring together a select group of stakeholders to share knowledge with members of the general public on IWRM; disaster risk reduction; forest conservation; food security; among other related topics. An opening ceremony preceded the launch of the exhibition which included a feature address by the Honourable Senator Emmanuel George, Minister of Public Utilities of Trinidad and Tobago. With the 2012 WWD theme being “Water and Food Security”, the Minister gave a fitting address stressing the effective management of wastewater is important to food security. Addressing distinguished guests and members of the public, he explained that poor/improper disposal of human waste can pollute ground and surface water supplies used in agriculture. Minister George further explained that the Ministry of Public Utilities has put the management of wastewater on their priority list. Mr. Ganga Singh, Chief Executive Officer of the WASA, also gave remarks at the opening ceremony and expressed the need for an integrated approach to effectively manage the water resources of the county. For the event, GWP-C’s exhibition booth revolved around the topic of IWRM. GWP-C was able to explain the meaning of the concept and share material on IWRM with over two-hundred (200) members of the general public. Visitors to the booth received leaflets on GWP-C, information on IWRM, GWP-C’s IWRM case studies in the Caribbean and how they could access GWP-C’s IWRM videos. In keeping with the IWRM theme of the booth, GWP-C also displayed information from IWRM stakeholders such as the Water Resources Agency (WRA) and the Institute of Marine Affairs (IMA). Representatives from these agencies also assisted GWP-C throughout the event in sharing information on IWRM.

Front view of the GWP-C booth at the World Water Day (WWD) exhibition held in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad on March 21st, 2012.

In addition to GWP-C, other exhibiting agencies included the WASA; the Forestry Division of the Ministry of Housing and the Environment; the Meteorological Services of the Ministry Public Utilities; the Trinidad and Tobago Electricity Commission (T&TEC); the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management (ODPM); the Ministry of Food Production; and the Environmental Management Authority (EMA). New GWP-C Partner On March 30th

, 2012, the Caribbean Institute of Sustainability (CIS) became the latest partner of Global Water Partnership-Caribbean (GWP-C).

The CIS is a non-profit organisation based in Trinidad that describes itself as a “Think and Do Tank” devoted to the preservation of the people and environment of Trinidad and Tobago and the Caribbean region. CIS focuses on professional, technical and vocational training, and education. The organisation also focuses on capacity building of civil society organisations and consulting. Activities of Partners Stakeholders Come Together for Annual Forest Celebration “Our Forest, Our River, Our People” was the theme of this year’s Gayap, an annual celebration put on by the Fondes Amandes Community Re-forestation Project (FACRP) in observance of forest conservation. The word ‘Gayap’ which means “lending a helping hand” accurately describes the three-day event which brings together members of the Fondes Amandes community, students (primary, secondary and tertiary level), environmentalists, government agencies, media; members of the public, among other stakeholders to a celebrate and share knowledge on the importance of the forest.

Ms. Gabrielle Lee Look, GWP-C Communications Officer is seen here on the left speaking to visitors about GWP-C’s work in the region and Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM).

Dr. Sharda Maharaj of the Water Resources Agency (WRA) is seen here speaking to visitors about IWRM.

The FACRP is a community based agro-forestry project that started in 1982 by a group of farmers living in the Fondes Amandes Watershed in Trinidad

to halt the degradation of the Fondes Amandes Watershed, which was a fire climax zone. The Project through its various agro-forestry activities has been fire free since 1997.

The 2012 Gayap launched on March 23rd

, urged stakeholders to be concerned and alert about what is taking place in the environment. Moreover, participants at the Gayap were reminded of the critical relationship between forests and water. Essentially, sustainable management of the forest is necessary for the supply of water.

Various agencies contributed to the 2012 Gayap in different ways. Representatives from the Asa Wright Nature Centre; the College of Science, Technology and Applied Arts of Trinidad and Tobago (COSTAATT); and the Green Fund of Trinidad and Tobago under the Ministry of Housing and the Environment all gave remarks at the opening of the Gayap; all pushing the message of “being in charge of your natural environment.” At the event, Mrs. Akilah Jaramogi, Managing Director of the FACRP spoke about preparedness and the need to share information on the forest and environment. Environmental packages comprised of information on water, bio-diversity and other related topics were shared with all students and guests. Both Global Water Partnership-Caribbean (GWP-C) and its partner the National Institute of Higher Education Research, Science and Technology (NIHEREST) contributed educational material to this year’s Gayap.

Students from various schools and educational institutions at the 2012 Gayap.

Mrs. Akilah Jaramogi, Managing Director of the Fondes Amandes Community Re-forestation Project (FACRP) is seen here engaging visitors at the 2012 Gayap about the importance of forest

After the formal opening, participants were broken up into groups with FACRP representatives as guides and engaged in activities such as fire trace cutting and clearing; tree planning; clearing check dams; and learning about forest fire prevention; animals and the eco-system; among other areas. The Gayap which took place over the course of three days (March 23rd - 25th

, 2012) saw the added participation of several members of the general public who were interested in gaining knowledge on the importance of forest conservation.

GWP-C Partners Commemorate World Water Day 2012

World Water Day (WWD) 2012 with its theme “Water and Food Security” sought to particularly raise awareness across the globe on the critical relationship between water and food security and to promote the need to conserve water.

Global Water Partnership-Caribbean’s (GWP-C’s) partners throughout the region joined the many people and organisations around the world in commemorating WWD on March 22nd

, 2012 in the following ways:

Antigua In observance of WWD 2012, the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) carried out the following activities:

1. A WWD address by the Minister of Public Utilities of Antigua.

2. A WWD Fun Walk hosted by the APUA’s Health Safety and Wellness Committee and the Water Business Unit. The Walk sought to sensitise persons on the plight of many who have to walk long distances to obtain potable water.

3. A “Water Conservation” presentation was made at two secondary schools on Friday, March 23rd

, 2012.

4. A tour of the APUA’s water treatment facilities at Fryyes Beach in Antigua for three secondary schools as well as presentations to assist them with their Caribbean Examinations Council (C.X.C.) school-based assessments.

5. An exhibition to commemorate WWD at the Sandals Resort in Antigua, inclusive of a presentation.

Students and other visitors to the Gayap are seen here learning about various animals and their roles in the eco-system.

6. Presentation to hotel guests and members of the public at the Grand Pineapple Hotel in Antigua.

Barbados The Barbados Chapter of the Caribbean Youth Environment Network (CYEN) issued a press release on WWD entitled “Water Situation in Barbados Threatens to Derail Island’s Green Economy Thrust.” The press release can be found at this link: http://www.caribbeanpressreleases.com/articles/9285/1/Water-Situation-in-Barbados-Threatens-to-Derail-Islands-Green-Economy-Thrust/Page1.html. Dominica The Dominica Water and Sewerage Company Ltd. (DOWASCO) commemorated WWD 2012 with the following activities:

• A radio address by the Honourable Reginald Austrie, Minister of Housing, Lands, Settlements and Water Resources.

• Radio Quizzes on the Dominica Broadcasting Station (DBS) and Kairi FM. • Distribution of brochures on water management to customers visiting the DOWASCO’s main

office. • Live panel discussion on Government Information Services (GIS) television. • Presentation on water to students of the St. Mary’s Primary School at the Public Library. • Water discussion on DBS’s Creole programme.

Grenada In observance of WWD, GWP-C’s partner, the Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association (CWWA) - Grenada Chapter, adopted the St. Martin’s Home for the Aged in the area of Crochu, St. Andrew’s on WWD on March 22nd

, 2012. On that day, the CWWA-Grenada Chapter assisted with the Home’s water and wastewater needs, repaired pipes, plumbing fixtures and installed a water tank to harvest rainwater.

Here’s a look at the work that took place at the St. Martin’s Home on WWD:

Also in Grenada, the National Water and Sewerage Authority (NAWASA) commemorated WWD 2012 through the following activities:

1. Free Reconnection Promotion - On WWD only, disconnected domestic customers were offered free reconnection (special conditions applied).

2. Water Conservation March - On March 23rd, 2012, the NAWASA held its 2nd

Annual Water Conservation March in observance of WWD. The march started in the area of Grenville and ended in Victoria Park, St. Andrew with a cultural event which saw the participation of more than six hundred students from twenty-two schools across the island.

At the cultural event, students of all ages engaged in water conservation activities and were encouraged to use innovative ways to conserve water. Prizes were awarded to the best organised school; the best banner; the best placard; and the best march past portrayal at the primary and secondary school level.

Workers under the guidance of the Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association (CWWA)-Grenada Chapter are seen here assessing the St. Martin’s Home water and plumbing fixtures and working to repair and install new pipes.

From Left - Right: Mr. Alphonsus Daniel, Vice President of the Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association (CWWA) and Mr. Trevor Thompson, GWP-C Chair, are seen here at the St. Mary’s Home on World Water Day during the installation of a

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3. Facebook Competition - A trivia competition about WWD, water conservation, food security and NAWASA. Participants visited the NAWASA’s facebook page and posted the answer to a question each day leading up to WWD.

Guyana In observance of WWD 2012, various water stakeholders in Guyana participated in a panel discussion on “Water and Food Security” for broadcast on local television. The event was coordinated by the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) and comprised of panelist from GWI, the World Wildlife Fund (WWF-Guianas), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO). On WWD, GWI in conjunction with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), PAHO, WWF-Guianas, EPA, FAO and the Ministry of Health, hosted a special symposium aimed at educating high school students on “Water and Food Security.” More than fifty students from various high schools in Guyana participated in the symposium. The students were exposed to a series of interactive presentations and activities highlighting the importance of water conservation and protection of freshwater resources with the overarching theme of preserving freshwater supplies to maintain food security. Students also had the opportunity to learn about safe and proper rainwater harvesting practices. The Honourable Irfaan Ali, Minister of Housing and Water and the Honourable Dr. Leslie Ramsammy, Minister of Health of Guyana attended the launch of the symposium and urged the students participating to spread the message of protecting freshwater resources. Here’s a look at some of the activities that took place during the WWD Symposium:

The National Water and Sewerage Authority’s (NAWASA’s) World Water Day Facebook winner is seen here being presented with her prize by Mr. Mikhael Marshall Customer Service

St. Joseph’s Convent - Winner of the top prize at the NAWASA’s 2nd Annual Water Conservation March

Students displaying their placards with water conservations messages.

Jamaica The Water Resources Authority (WRA) of Jamaica planned various activities in observance of WWD 2012. These included:

1. An open day/exhibition on the 2012 WWD theme “Water and Food Security.” The exhibition focused on rainwater harvesting as an alternative to piped water. Live outside broadcasts of the event were done on Radio Jamaica and Power 106.

2. Features in two daily papers (the Jamaica Gleaner and Observer) with editorial content provided by stakeholders such as the Water Resources Authority, the National Water Commission, the National Irrigation Commission and the National Environment and Planning Agency.

3. Interviews on several radio and television morning programmes such as Calling Farmers, Smile Jamaica on Television Jamaica (TVJ) and CVM at Sunrise.

4. In an attempt to target children, an episode of the television programme “Kids Say” which

airs on Television Jamaica (TVJ) focused on the importance of water and water conservation. On “Kids Say” children from across Jamaica speak openly on various topics.

St. Kitts and Nevis The St. Kitts Water Services Department (WSD) put on a week of activities from March 18th - 24th

, 2012 to celebrate WWD. The following is a list of these activities by the WSD:

1. Ministerial speech/statement to commemorate WWD 2012 in St. Kitts and Nevis on television and radio stations.

2. WSD staff engaged the community by visiting both primary and secondary schools on “Water and Food Security.”

3. WSD staff made appearances on various radio and television programmes to speak about the importance of water and its link to food security.

4. WSD hosted a joint activity with the Department of Agriculture and Taiwan Technical Mission

at an agro-processing facility in the area of Needsmust. The event included: - Guided tours of the agro-processing facility. - Sampling of local juices produced at the facility. - An information booth with posters and brochures.

Students creating water conservation posters for World Water Day.

Students are seen here presenting their water conservation posters.

- Meeting key staff from both the Water and Agriculture Departments. - A feature demonstration of water conservation practices and irrigation technologies.

5. A guided tour to Stonefort water source.

St. Lucia The following is a list of activities that were organised by the Water Resource Management Agency (WRMA) of St. Lucia to commemorate WWD 2012:

1. Advertisement on WWD 2012 and surrounding water issues was published in the Voice newspaper.

2. Articles from water related agencies regarding “Water and Food Security” were published in the Star, Voice and Mirror newspapers.

3. WWD rubber stamp was used at the General Post Office on all outgoing mail in order to promote public awareness.

4. A public address was delivered on WWD by St. Lucia’s Minister of Sustainable Development, Energy, Science and Technology.

5. Presentations were made to students at the Dennery School on March 31st

, 2012.

6. Radio announcements were made regarding WWD on March 22nd

, 2012 on Radio St. Lucia.

7. A fifteen minute radio interview for the “Agriculture-In-Focus” programme was aired on Radio St. Lucia.

8. A thirty minute Government Information Service (GIS) programme was shown on local television where panelists discussed water and food security.

9. A thirty minute interview on “Discourse” was aired on Choice TV on March 20th

, 2012.

10. A discussion on water and food security on “NewsSpin” was aired on WWD on Radio Caribbean International (RCI) in St. Lucia.

Trinidad and Tobago To celebrate WWD 2012, the Women, Gender and Water Network hosted an interactive workshop and puppet show for children under the theme “Gender, Climate Change and Water.” The activity took place on March 23rd

, 2012 at the Matelot Community Roman Catholic Primary School in Trinidad.

Also in Trinidad, the National Institute of Higher Education Research, Science and Technology (NIHERST) visited primary and secondary schools in rural areas on WWD to share information on water conservation. The school visits were within the framework of a NIHERST project aimed at establishing rainwater harvesting systems for more than ten primary and secondary schools in rural areas in Trinidad. In commemorating WWD, the NIHERST also put on a host of exciting hands-on water activities at its National Science Centre (NSC) from March 20th - 23rd

, 2012, which included the display of GWP-C’s Rainwater Harvesting model. During that period, visitors to the NSC were able to learn about the benefits of rainwater harvesting, concepts of hard and soft water, hydroponics, water density, capillary action, cohesion, tension and conduct simple water quality tests.

Children that were seven years and under were able to explore the world of water through specially designed activities in a “Kidiplay” area. Primary school students were able to learn about the water cycle and simple ways to conserve water. Additionally, in commemorating WWD in Trinidad, the Water Resources Agency (WRA) shared knowledge with employees at the Atlantic Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) company on March 21st and 22nd

, 2012 with a presentation on the “State of Water Resources in Trinidad and Tobago.” The WRA also partnered with the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) to put on an exhibit at the Lower Cumuto Primary School which is located in a rural community in Trinidad. There the WRA shared information with students on the important uses of water and the need for conserving this resource at home.

CENTRAL AMERICA Beyond the 6th World Water Forum

The 6th World Water Forum took place in Marseille, France from the 12th to 17th of March, with the participation of more than 35,000 representatives of the various sectors of society. At the end of the week, more than 100 concrete commitments were made out of the 1400 solutions presented, which are expected to contribute to the fulfillment of the human right to water and sanitation and to improve the management of this important resource. The World Water Council will share the solutions and commitments made during the week, at the

Students are seen here during the interactive “Gender, Climate Change and Water” workshop put on by the Women, Gender and Water Network on March 23rd, 2012.

Rio +20 Summit, where water and sanitation is part of the agenda.

For GWP Central America, it was the culmination of months of preparatory work for various sessions of the Americas including: Water Governance and IWRM, Climate Change and Water Supply and Sanitation.

•

Some of the most important issues raised in the governance sessions are:

The region needs to strengthen community organizations in management

water so that they have the skills necessary to perform the appropriate technical and

administrative management of drinking water provision and resource conservation.

•

The increase in knowledge will also improve their advocacy role. The participation of different stakeholders and resource users, contribute to better

•

water governance. Funding is needed to ensure governance processes

• .

Political will is •

key in establishing IWRM. In water management, it is necessary to consider the different contexts and scales of a country or region.

•

It is fundamental to

improve the politicians´ knowledge on IWRM.

For the region of the Americas, the highlight of the week was the presentation of the “Water Agenda of the Americas”, which is an important result of the 6th World Water Forum process. More than 40 organizations have participated in the development of the Agenda which includes the entire hemisphere. This document is expected to become the working tool for the region on the water resources, as is stated in the introduction of the document: “[the Water Agenda of the Americas] aspires to contribute to the efforts of the international community around the common objective of making this vital resource, both for its social and cultural significance as well as its role in the sustainability of our

civilizations, a driver of development for the benefit of present and future generations.”

• GWP CAM PARTICIPATION» • FOTOS GWP CAM IN FORUM» • GOVERNANCE PRESENTATIONS» • WATER AGENDA OF THE AMERICAS»

World Water Day in Central America

To celebrate World Water Day 2012 (March 22), GWP Central America organized various events in the region to promote dialogue of issues relevant to water, including food security, the human right to water and sanitation, climate change and water governance.

GWP Guatemala jointly coordinated a series of events in March including a forum on the human right to water and sanitation, a seminar on consumer rights and the human right to water, a national forum on water, food security and climate change, and a national congress on the national river basins. MORE»

GWP El Salvador celebrated World Water Day with a two-day event meant to inform on the water situation in the country and encourage the involvement of the civil society in the promotion of good governance of water resources. MORE»

GWP Honduras participated in the organization of the “National Forum:

Right to Water and Sanitation” which was attended by representatives from the government, civil society and academia. The keynote speech was given by the international expert, Dr. Carlos Fernandez-Jauregui, Director de Water Assessment & Advisory – Global Network (WASA-GN). MORE»

GWP Honduras also organized a forum with students and teachers from the National University to share information and strengthen their knowledge on the effect of climate change on water resources in Honduras. MORE» Members of GWP Costa Rica participated in a radio and TV program, both from the University of Costa Rica, to discuss issues related to food security and the status of the Water Law in the country. MORE» GWP Panama also participated in the regional discussion on the right to water and sanitation, their event was held on the 30th of March. Identifying water proposals in El Salvador and Belize for French financing

The French Cooperation has manifested an interest in funding projects that strengthen water governance in El Salvador and Belize. To that end, GWP El Salvador has participated in meetings and events held by the French Embassy/Cooperation to identify water issues and proposals that are relevant to be funded. GWP El Salvador has also aided the French Cooperation in identifying key actors in Belize who are involved in the management of water, so that they might carry out a similar process in that country. The Water Law of

El Salvador presented to Congress

To celebrate World Water Day, the President of El Salvador through the Minister of Environment and Natural Resources, presented the General Water Law to the National Congress on the 22nd

of March. The Law recognizes the human right to water and recognizes the watershed approach.

The water reform in El Salvador has been led by the Technical Secretariat of the Presidency (STP) and the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (MARN), with the participation of the 13 governmental institutions related to water. The process has included the participation of civil society and the different stakeholders

, which has been an important contribution of GWP and other networks in the country.

The General Water Law was presented to the public on the 28th of March at an event organized by the MARN, which was attended by various stakeholders of Salvadoran society.

It is expected that the Water Law will be approved by the National Congress in the coming days and in this context, various government agencies and civil society

have been actively supporting and lobbying for the endorsement of this Law.

VI Environmental and Socio Cultural Fair in Panama

The VI Environmental and Socio Cultural Fair of the Chilibre Caves (March 23-25), was organized by the local committees and the

Consultative Council of the region of Chilibrillo-Chilibre.

The theme for the fair, was "Basin, Water and Canal: Heritage of all Panamanians " and included a visit to the Caves, institutional booths, traditional food, and a range of different games and activities for the children, as well as folk dancing and other

live performances.

This event, as well as the establishment of the Consultative Council has been supported by GWP Panama. MORE FOTOS» New Steering Committee at GWP

Honduras

On Thursday March 29th, GWP Honduras held its General Assembly

with the participation of representatives of 18 partner organizations. After presenting the financial and activity reports, the Assembly carried out the election of the new Chair and Steering Committee.

Fundación Vida, through Sergio Nuñez, acted as Chair for two consecutive years. The new elected Chair is Nabil Kawas from the National University of Honduras. The partners elected as part of the

Steering Committee are: National Service of Water and Sanitation (SANAA), the Ministry of Environment (SERNA), Zamorano University, Honduran Association of Water Management Committees (AHJASA), Agua para el Pueblo, Agua Pura para el Mundo and Fundación Vida. The new Steering Committee has set the date for their next meeting, April 10th 2012. STEERING COMMITTEE» Steps to the establishment of GWP Belize

Partners from Belize will meet on April 25, 2012 at the University of Belize, to follow up on the establishment of the National Water Partnership of Belize. Before finalizing the bylaws, partners will be discussing the possibility of forming working groups in priority areas so that they might be included in the document.

The establishment of CWP Belize has become more relevant after the Governor General declared that "we will establish the National Integrated Water Resources Management Authority, through the Global Climate Change Alliance Project, to strengthen the management of water resources throughout the country”. NEWS ARTICLE» GWP Central America welcomes three new partners in March

From Belize, an NGO created to protect, conserve and preserve the river basins of Chiquibul, Mopan, Macal and Belize, joins GWP. In El Salvador the GAIA Association becomes part of the network. The Association is an organization dedicated to the preservation, protection and environmental recovery of protected areas of the country. And GWP Costa Rica welcomes the newest partner: the Foundation for the Development of the Central Volcanic Range (FUNDECOR). Their mission is to preserve and promote the sustainable use of natural resources.

The proceeding from HELP Symposium 2011 available

The proceeding from the second International Symposium of the Hydrology for the Environment, Life and Policy-HELP are now available online. DOWNLOAD DOC» The Symposium was held in Panama in November of 2011, and was organized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the International Hydrological Program and the Panama Canal. This symposium is part of a series of events under the leadership of the International Hydrological Programs’ crosscutting initiative Hydrology for the Environment,

Life and Policy (HELP) GWP Panamá was an active participant in the event, and together with GWP Central America coordinated the sessions on the "Current Situation of Water Resources in Central America: Towards a Good Water Governance

".

The event was an excellent opportunity to exchange experiences with experts on water and watersheds from different countries,

and GWP Panama organized a booth with information on the network as well as their partners.

Two new case studies from Central America on climate change

GWP Central America has recently finished two new cases studies that will be presently translated for the Toolbox. The first is “The adaptation and vulnerability reduction to climate change in the water sector in the Moyua Wetland, Playitas and Tecomapa, Nicaragua.” This study is on the Moyua Lagoon, which is a body of water that is part of the lagoon system Moyua-Tecomapa-Playitas, located in the “dry zone” in the northern part of Nicaragua. The System has recently been declared a Wetland of International Importance by the Ramsar Convention. The Moyua Lagoon is an example of how to reduce the vulnerability to climate change in the water sector and to promote adaptation measures with community participation.

The other case is from Reventazón River in Costa Rica. In the past 10 years, conservation and land management actions have been implemented in the upper basin of the Reventazón River, which has reduced the sediment that reaches the dams by approximately 20%. This has helped reduce the risk of flooding in the area

of the basin. The actions are being implemented by COMCURE, a basin organization, created in the year 2000.

CENTRAL AND EASTERN EUROPE In the frame of the National Celebration of World Water Day, GWP Bulgaria organized the session at Technical House in Sofia on 23 March. The topic was renewable energy sources and IWRM focusing on specific use of technologies in wastewater treatment processes. On the base of discussion GWP partners decided to propose to Minister of Environment and Water organizing conference of national experts on applied wastewater technologies and its ecological effect. Several new waste water treatment plants were constructed with the support of European Union funds and state budget however, only some of them correspond to European standards. GWP Bulgaria will be co-organizer and facilitator on sustainable sanitation in small agglomerations. Special announcement has been done in Water Affairs magazine about GWP CEE involvement in book "No One Left Behind", presented at 6 WWF (see p.36 and back cover page in PDF).

The webpage of GWP Hungary http://www.gwpmo.hu has become fully operational during March 2012. It contains sections as: About us, News, Publications, Gallery, Contact, Links and Archive. The webpage has inter alia reported on WWF6, on the events organized to celebrate the Day, the launch of Danube Art Master, see picture. Thanks to the campaign the GWP Hungary had run in collaboration with the Ministry of Rural Development the number of Hungarian signatory cities to the Istanbul Water Consensus reached 17, contributing to the more than 1,000 worldwide before the 6 WWF opened. Ms Edit Nagy secretary-general of the Hungarian Water Utility Association (GWP Partner) has been accepted by the Royal Academy of Engineering Sciences as member of the Stockholm Industry Water Award committee, following her nomination by GWP Hungary. Ms Nagy has started her activity in the committee. József Gayer Chair of GWP Hungary attended the WWD celebration of GWP partner Hungarian Water Utility Association. The event offered excellent possibility for networking among the water professionals and executives of the country.

By the invitation of Budapest Zoo GWP Hungary contributed to the weekend festival on water (24-25 March), organized to celebrate WWD. At the stand of GWP Hungary several hundred schoolchildren played with the giant puzzle of the Danube basin and learned a lot about safeguarding water. A Road show has been launched to raise water awareness among students in Hungary. Mr József Gayer as chair GWP Hungary is member of the team (including professors and a former minister of environment) visiting seven universities and colleges in the country GWP Moldova participated in the launching of the Bic River Basin Council on 3 March 2012 comprising representatives of local authorities, scientific, donor and other organizations. During launching event GWP Moldova made a presentation on the opportunities for training of different level of authorities in the field of water management using GWP resources and development of water infrastructure. In this context main objectives and activities of possible GWP funded project on “Improvement of capacities of local authorities in planning of local water infrastructure in Moldova“ were presented. Activities presumed in the project proposal were highly appreciated by representatives of the National Agency for Regional Development (Central Region) and this agency expressed a support for project implementation activities. As a result of the Bic River Council initiative, a meeting of potential donors is slated for April-May. GWP Moldova in cooperation with the local authorities from the Bic River Basin has prepared a project proposal for the development of the network of the wetland restoration sites in the Bic River Basin. It was also discussed during national meeting of environmental NGOs. During this meeting an agreement on cooperation with the Ministry of Environment was signed. Implementation of the project is presumed in cooperation with National Ecological Fund during 2012-2013. GWP Moldova in cooperation with the Ministry of Education organized a national contest of the environmental projects among pupils dedicated to the World Water Day on 16-17 March 2012. Around 40 projects were presented and evaluated during the event. Total more that 60 pupils from all regions of the country took part in the competition. Results of the event were presented in local mass-media. GWP Moldova participated in the ICPDR hydropower workshop organized 21-22 February 2012 in Timisoara, Romania. During this event a presentation on hydropower generation practices and hydromorphological alterations in the Moldavian part of the Danube River Basin was prepared and presented during the event. GWP Moldova has prepared a report on the climate change issues in the Lower part of the Moldavian part of the Danube River Basin in Odessa, Ukraine on 26-27 March 2012. Report was presented at the Odessa meeting during regional event on the climate change. As a result of the

meeting GWP Moldova will organize a training session for local authorities from Moldova and Ukraine in order to develop program of measures to adapt actual sectoral activities in the region to the climate change. Training is going to be organized in the second half of the year. In cooperation with the National Commission of the Republic of Moldova for UNESCO, GWP Moldova presented proposals for the development of water infrastructure in rural localities. These proposals are included as an integrated part of the UNDAF program and initial activities will be also supported by the UNESCO through participation program to be developed during 2012-2013. GWP Moldova has also continued activities for the creation of the network of the biosphere reserves in Moldova. In this context a meeting of local authorities was organized in the Cahul Town. During the event necessary steps and activities were presented to local authorities to start creation of the biosphere site. Such activities are organized for implementation the provisions of the governmental program for creation of the biosphere areas in Moldova. In this context GWP Moldova has made a presentation on sustainable education in the biosphere reserves during UNESCO supported workshop in Athens on 30 March – 5 April 2012 on involvement of local authorities in biosphere reserve management in Moldova (case-study). At the invitation of Ministry of Environment and Forest and of National Water Authorities “Apele Romane Liviu Nicolae Popescu, GWP Romania President participated in “ENVIROTEC” an exhibition and series of seminars on 2 March 2012 in Bucharest. The venue was dedicated to environmental factors management. Liviu Nicolae Popescu made a presentation on GWP Strategy and activities carried out in frame of the strategy goals by GWP CEE and GWP Romania. A number of GWP publications in English and Romania languages were disseminated which were well received. GWP Romania participated in International Conference with the theme “Monitoring of Water Pollution and Waste Water Treatment” held in Sinaia at the Prahova Valley on 21-23 March. The conference, dedicated to World Water Day was organized by the Petroleum and Gas University from Ploiesti and a consortium of equipment’s, technologies and consultancy providers acting mainly in the gas and petroleum industry. Eng. Liviu Nicolae Popescu, GWP Romania President, presented the water quality monitoring activities at the Danube Basin wide level (Trans National Monitoring Network – structure, functions, results and outputs), followed by Drd. C. Hamchevici (GWP-RO member), presently working in the National Water Authorities „APELE ROMANE“ that has presented the National Water Quality Monitoring System with its structure and all its functions and rules. In the second part of the conference, GWP CEE and GWP Romania activities were presented focusing on the role of waste water treatment processes from small settlements that needs to be promoted mainly in the context of IWRM principles application, when we advocate for the water quality preservation and/or its improvement by means of best effective and best affordable solutions in small settlements, while the major settlements have full support from all structures. As a result, GWP Romania was invited to visit the Ploiesti Gas and Petroleum Technical University to deliver presentation and documentations about Integrated Water Resources Management applied according with all its universal recognized 4 principles and which are the basic frame and skeleton of GWP network activities. GWP Romania participated in “ACO“ seminar on 30 March in Bucharest. Goal of the seminar was to discuss water protection according to national legislation and IWRM and especially waste water collection and treatment. World Water Day Summary http://www.gwp.org/en/GWP-CEE/gwp-cee-in-action/news-and-activities/GWP-CEE-celebrates-World-Water-Day-2012/

22 March (Thursday)

Country and city: Slovenia, Ljubljana Congress of Slovenian Waters 2012

Location: Biotechnological Faculty, Jamnikarjeva 101, Ljubljana GWP Slovenia members presented their activities on the poster. Organizers: Slovenian Committee for the International Decade Water for Life 2005-2015 Contact: kongresvoda@fgg.uni-lj.si Website: http://ksh.fgg.uni-lj.si/kongresvoda/KongresVod2012.pdf 22-23 March (Thursday-Friday)

Country and city: Sofia, Bulgaria 19th National Celebration of World Water Day

Location: National House of Science and Technique, Sofia, 108 Rakovski Str. Organizers: Ministry of Environment and Water and Scientific-Technical Union of Water Affairs in Bulgaria in cooperation with GWP Bulgaria. GWP Bulgaria organized Renewable Energy Resources Session on 23 March between 10:00 -12:00 o’clock. Contact: Dr. Galia Bardarska, e-mail: bwp@dir.bg 23 March 2012 (Friday)

Country and city: Estonia, Tartu Conference: How Environmental Education Supports Development of Water Management

Location: Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila Street 14A. Organizers: Estonian Water Association (host institute to GWP Estonia), Institute of Chemistry (Department of Environmental Chemistry) and University of Tartu. During the conference, 9 presentations were followed by visits to laboratories of environmental chemistry. Contact: Arvo Järvet, email: ajarvet@ut.ee Website: http://veeyhing.ee/ 24-25 March (Saturday-Sunday)

City: Hungary, Budapest World Water Day 2012

Location: Budapest ZOO Organizers: Budapest Waterworks, Budapest Zoo, Danube Museum and GWP Hungary Contact: Celebration took place in Budapest ZOO, 1146 Budapest Allatkerti krt. 6-12. Website: http://www.vizvilagnap.hu GWP CEE contributed to books launched at 6th World Water Forum http://www.gwp.org/en/GWP-CEE/gwp-cee-in-action/news-and-activities/GWP-CEE-contributed-to-books-launched-at-6th-world-water-forum1/ Galia Bardarska and Liviu Nicolae Popescu of GWP Bulgaria and Romania contributed to the publication “New perspectives for the management of water projects: Models and applications from 8 trans-boundary projects” published by Oxyo Water, France. Galia Bardarska on behalf of GWP CEE made a contribution to the book “No one left behind: Good practices to ensure equitable access to water and sanitation in the pan-European region” published by United Nations Economic Commission for Europe and World Health Organization Regional Office for Europe. The books were launched at 6th World Water Forum in Marseille. CENTRAL ASIA AND CAUCASUS

27 February 2012 Chimkent, Kazakhstan. Final regional working meeting of target coordinators from Central Asia for 6th

12-16 March 2012 Marseilles, France. The 6

WWF. Meeting was so-coordinated by EC IFAS and GWP CACENA. The goal was to agree final mutual platform of the Central Asia for its presentation in Marseilles. Final Solutions for regional priority targets were presented by target coordinators: Saghit Ibatullin and Marat Narbaev (EC IFAS) – on transboundary cooperation; Prof. Victor Dukhovny (SIC ICWC) on water for future generations; Kurban Ballyev (Turkmenistan) – on risk management; Shukhrat Mukhamedjanov (SDC supported project on water and land productivity) on water for food security; Vadim Sokolov (GWP CACENA) on IWRM; Saidrasul Sanginov (Green movement of Uzbekistan) and Juliya Plotnitskaya (Hydromet Service) on climate change adaptation and ecosystems sustainability. Also, there was a special presentation by Barbara Janush-Pavletta from Germany-Kazakshtan University on capacity building program for Central Asia.

th

World Water Forum. On 15th March there was conducted special Session “Input of Central Asia to the World Water Progress”, which was supported by GWP CACENA as co-organizer. The general goal of this session was to present to the worldwide water society the agreed solutions within thematic priorities for the Central Asian sub-region, which has specific and diverse natural, social and economic environments related to water resources. Session was leaded by Saghit Ibatullin, Chairman of EC IFAS, and high level panel was represented by Mr. Islam Abishev – Chair of the State Committee of water resources of Kazakhstan, Mr. Hasan Khasanov, Deputy Minister of water resources of Tajikistan, Mr. Shavkat Khamraev, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and water resources of Uzbekistan, Central Asian NGO Ecoforum was represented by Ekaterina Strekelova from CAREC.

Delegates from Central Asia with Ben Braga – President of IFC WWF6

High level panel of the Central Asian session

During session target coordinators from Central Asian countries presented solutions for seven priorities for Central Asia:

1. Guaranteeing water for future generations 2. Risk management and water security 3. International cooperation in the region – on the basis of International Conventions 4. Adoption of innovations in agriculture through agrarian reforms in order to achieve food

security 5. Integrated water resources management – a tool for balancing multiple uses of water 6. Climate change and conserving environmental capacity

7. Sustainable water supply and sanitation

Group photo after signing “World Pact for Better Basin Management”

Synthesis session of APWF

Delegates from GWP CACENA, which were represented by partners from Armenia, Georgia, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan took active participation in INBO initiative towards lunching of the “World Pact for Better Basin Management” and also in synthesis session of the Asia-Pacific Water Forum.

In occasion of World Water Day (22 March) almost all CWPs in CACENA region conducted special activities. As example – CWP Armenia together with it’s partner organizations- SPRING GROUP Strategic PR Initiative Group, DEMO Production, Coca Cola Hellenic Company, has implemented numerous activities in order to celebrate the World Water Day and raise public awareness on it.

The series of events was commenced by the press conference held on 6th of March, where a series of events on “Let’s care – World Water Day 2012- Armenia” project and the current situation with water safety and related issues in Armenia were presented.

More than 15 journalists were present to the press conference, who latter have illustrated the project with various media keys (TV, radio, newsletters). An open Photo Contest was announced to present the social, environmental, esthetic and other kind of issues connected to the water resources from the view point of the public. The winner of the Photo Contest was awarded with a prize.

Professional discussions were held, where experts discussed the main issues of the water sector and the further steps to address them.

Another example from Georgia, where CWP Georgia co-organized special round table discussion in cooperation with GEF project “Reducing transboundary degradation in the Kura-Araks river basin”. The topic of discussion was linking biodiversity conservation and water management in the transboundary context.

Meeting in Tbilisi on topic: “Reducing transboundary degradation in the Kura-Araks river basin”

CENTRAL AFRICA ADOPTION OF THE STUDY OF INSTITUTIONAL CREATION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF REGIONAL COORDINATION CENTER FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF WATER RESOURCES IN CENTRAL AFRICA (CRGE). Ministers in charge of water of the Member States of the Economic Community of Central African States met on April 6, 2012 in Bangui. This meeting was intended to study the adoption of institutional creation and implementation of the Regional Coordination Centre for Water Resources Management (CRGRE), and Ahead of the meeting, a meeting of experts of ECCAS General Secretariat of ECCAS, country experts and experts from international and regional organizations among which the GWP-CAf.

Participants reviewed and approved with amendments the report submitted to their discretion. The amendments have included: - To develop relations between the Centre and other institutions such as the Basin Organizations; - The organizational framework of CRGRE, including, among other, the tasks and organization of the Center; - Actions for Sustainability of the Center, including the mobilization of resources for financing the activities of the Institutional Framework for implementation of the regional water policy (Decision-making bodies and advisory bodies); - Involvement of Focal Points of Member States and basin organizations in carrying out the activities of CRGRE; - The shares of establishment and initial operation of the Centre who advocate to stagger the implementation of the Center over a period of five years; - The action plan for the establishment of the Center. After work, the experts made the following recommendations: For the attention of Ministers responsible for regional water - That the Ministers adopted the report of the study validated by experts on the study of institutional establishment of Regional Centre for the Coordination of Water Resource Management. - That the Ministers make a plea to the Conference of Heads of State and Government to allocate to the General Secretariat of ECCAS a budget consistent with the increase of the general budget of the General Secretariat of ECCAS to take into account the financing of the establishment and operation of CRGRE and other regional structures of institutional framework for implementation of regional policy of the water, as recommended by the meeting of Ministers responsible for water held in Brazzaville on 29 March 2009. For the attention of the General Secretariat of ECCAS - That the General Secretariat of ECCAS organize with the support of GWP-CAf and involvement of the Development Bank of Central African States (BDEAC) and the process of finalizing the regional strategies document for financing water sector and submitted it for adoption to the competent authorities; - That the General Secretariat of ECCAS will soon present the CRGRE budget and other regional bodies according to the expected results; - That the General Secretariat of ECCAS develops a work plan for the establishment of CRGRE taking into account the existence of the Starting Unit within the General Secretariat of ECCAS; During the ministerial meeting, a feasibility study for establishment of the Information System on Water of the Economic Community of Central African States was also adopted. EASTERN AFRICA

• Departure of GWP Dev comm officer announced on the 26th

• Fundraising as a follow up to the participation of GWP dev comm officer in the Africa Interact workshop of IDRC/CORAF on 28 and 29

of March

th

• Development of the annual workplan of the joint UNEP/GWP/NBI project of February: See February report

• Participation in the WWF 2012 of GWP technical advisor and GWP Dev comm officer: o Presentation during the youth and gender Africa session by GWP technical

advisor, 15th

of March;

Deputy Minister Hon Rejoice Mabudafhasi, South Africa, Ministry of Water and Environmental Affairs, with Simon Thuo GWP EnA, Sena Alouka JVE Togo, and Phoebe Luwum, AMCOW, around a launch of a joint youth and gender project between AMCOW, and GWP Eastern Africa along with WaterAid and ANEW.

o Presentation during the 1.5.1 session by GWP Dev Comm Officer, 14th

o Fundraising with IUCN environmental law center, Bonn, as a follow up to the presentation. Interest expressed to participate in the UNEP/GWP/NBI joint project or WACDEP project in Bugesera watershed as part of the Bridge sub project of WANI, and in collaboration with IUCN Central America office.

of March;

• Information and fundraising meeting of GWP Dev Comm Officer with UNICEF Ethiopia, 20 March 2012

• Capacity-building proposal development by GWP Dev Comm and sharing with UNEP partners, NBI and NBD, for the design of national adaptation packages and stakeholders participation: 23 March, see annex 2.

o Proposition of NBI stakeholders resource person to fit the Interparliamentary Union agenda - 5 April-12th

o NBD wishes to have a joint project after the two years project closing period, i.e. in May 2012 as part of the current climate resilient project development in NBD

April in Kampala and its afterwards

• Collection of stakeholders lists and databases of IDRC, ASARECA, NBI, NELSAP, NBD by GWP Dev Comm officer

• Follow up on the proposition made on the 5th of March to have a presentation after the WWF 2012 if the UN donors platform for head of agencies in Uganda holds a meeting and before the Nairobi workshop and general assembly of GWP EnA. Proposal sent to the head of agencies UNDP, UNOHCHR, IOM, FAO.

Consultation with the watershed specialist of FAO for a UN joint project associated to the existing UNEP/GWP/NBI project on the 17th of April, and with IOM on the 18th

• Organization by GWP EnA office of Nairobi workshop, as part of the UNEP/GWP/NBI joint project, and fundraising by GWP EnA Dev Comm with Africa Climate Policy Center , UNECA. Proposal sent on the 12

of April.

th

• Fundraising meeting with French Ambassador, 10 of April. Report of the workshop done by Wangira.

th of April, and proposal sent on the 12th

• Participation in Rosa Luxemburg regional office workshop on the climate change impacts in the countries of the Horn of Africa, 14

of April. Expression of interest for conflict analysis and EU role at the regional level, i.e. ECSP and RECS.

th

• Development of a paper brief: Problematicising Bugesera watershed WACDEP project. See annex 1

of April 2012. Fundraising meeting and proposition to send a proposal to Siegfried

MEDITERRANEAN Non-Conventional Techniques for Water Reuse in the Mediterranean http://www.gwp.org/en/gwp-in-action/Mediterranean/News-and-Activities-GWP-Mediterranean/Non-Conventional-Techniques-for-Water-Reuse-in-the-Mediterranean/ SOUTH AMERICA

WORLD WATER DAY CELEBRATIONS IN PERU AND VENEZUELA NEWS

GWP Venezuela celebrated the World Water Day a whole week with a series of activities ranging from forums and conferences to the exhibition of documentaries and a “twitterton” or marathon of tweets, in which tweets aimed at raising awareness and improving knowledge of the topic were sent to all contacts. Water and Food Security was the focus theme of this year and the conferences given versed on relevant topics and their relation to the focus theme. The main topics addressed were Climate Change, Development and Energetic Efficiency, Health and Integrated Water Resources Management in Basins. The event “Cine Foro” in the state of Zulia, showed documentaries which shared knowledge with regards to one of the biggest challenges which this state faces, the conservation of Sierra de Perijá, where the sources of a great amount of the rivers which feed the states’ reservoirs and Maracaibo’s lake are found. But it were the forums which stood out. The forum “Water, a resource appreciated by many and valued by a few” gathered more than 420 people, including teachers coordinating the environmental area of 320 schools in the State of Carabobo, librarians from 40 public libraries, parish coordinators of Civil Protection of the 14 municipalities of Carabobo, environment coordinators of companies subscribed to the Chamber of Industry and representatives of the educational community as well as community councils close to participating schools. It was organized by the Government of Carabobo in alliance with GWP Venezuela, among other organizations, and therefore contributed to strengthen bonds especially between GWP Venezuela and the local government.

In the forum “A coffee with Water and Food Security”, about 40 people from NGOs, universities, government entities and

private companies participated. Concepts such as social water management, food security and food sovereignty were reviewed and discussed, whereas proposals to improve the social management of water to guarantee food security and rural sustainable development were presented. Among the proposals put forward were: -to increase transparency regarding the management of information on the situation of water resources by creating, for instance, centers of local and regional information and knowledge in basins. -to develop a policy on Food Security which considers social management of water in basins; and -to create a flexible credit fund for the private sector to facilitate financing of high-performance and eco-efficient irrigation infrastructure. A current issue for Venezuelans, an oil spill which occurred in February in a river of Monagas State was also addressed in the Forum. This accident left the capital of this State, Maturin, without water and affected crops and biodiversity in the area.

Juan Carlos Sánchez, professor at the Faculty of Engineering of the Central University of Venezuela and co-winner of the Nobel Peace Prize 2007, explained the effects of an oil spill and the contingency measures that should be taken, using the case of River Guarapiche as an example. Another outstanding presence was that of Hiram Gaviria, President of the Committee on Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change of the National Assembly, who gave a speech on Water, Food Security and Sustainable

Development in Venezuela. His contribution was very valuable as he also facilitated participants’ contact with the person in charge of the development of the environmental legislation in Venezuela. In Peru, GWP Peru, the UNESCO-IHP Peruvian National Committee and the Meteorological and Hydrological National Service-SENAMHI, with the support of the Ministry of the Environment, organized the IV Water Festival, which included the scientific Symposium “Weather, Climate and Water, engines of our future” and the event Water Market, carried out on 22-23 March in Lima. The Vice-minister of Strategic Development of Natural Resources of the Ministry of the Environment, Mr. Gabriel Quijandria Acosta, opened the Symposium emphasizing the importance of the nexus between water and food security. He highlighted its relevance for Peru, being this a country with a large arid and semi-arid area, and the urgent need to improve the efficiency in water management. At the Water Market, state entities, including the Ministry of the Environment, the Ministry of Housing, the National Water Authority, and private companies presented 14 stands, which showed the water-related work they have been currently developing in order to raise public awareness on its saving and protection. Water professionals, technicians, university students and scholars participated in this event dedicated to the public in general. (More information (Spanish) on Peru’s activities and images which can be copied are in the attached document “IV Festival del Agua”)

FIRST REGIONAL CONSULTATION- PROJECT ON GROUNDWATER GOVERNANCE (MONTEVIDEO, 18-20 APRIL)

EVENTS

The First Regional Consultation of the project on Groundwater Governance: A Global Framework for Country Actions will involve the Latin America and Caribbean region and will be held in Montevideo from 18th to 20th April 2012. It is organized by the UNESCO International Hydrological Programme (IHP), the Global Environment Facility (GEF), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the International Association of Hydrogeologists (IAH) and the World Bank. The project addresses concerns over the depletion and degradation of groundwater in the Earth's crust. These impacts are attributed to a general failure to use groundwater responsibly. The project aims to reverse these trends. An

overview of the project outputs to date has been prepared to prompt discussion at this first Consultation.

Sources and further information: http://www.groundwatergovernance.org http://www.unesco.org.uy/phi/en/themes/natural-sciences/programa-hidrologico-internacional/aditional-information/events.html FIRST MEETING OF RESEARCHERS IN TRAINING ON WATER RESOURCES (BUENOS AIRES, JUNE 14-15)

The meeting is organized by the National Water Institute (INA) of the Water Resources Sub-secretariat of Argentina and is intended for researchers working in scientific and technical entities, students, teachers and researchers being trained on water resources at the academic level. Its main objective is to contribute to the theoretical debate by assessing the state of

the art on current issues and sharing experiences in the search for joint solutions for the whole community of researchers involved in the area. It will be held at INA’s headquarters in Buenos Aires. More information: http://www.ina.gov.ar/index.php?seccion=60

1. Water quality questioned in Venezuela (March 19) GWP IN THE NEWS

National newspaper: Últimas noticias

http://www.clippingdigital.com/email/detalle.php?num=6635470024&alt=2776,600,600,66354700242&cl=361

2. GWP Venezuela promotes integrated water management (March 19) National news website: Noticiero Digital http://www.noticierodigital.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=851016

3. Una semana para conmemorar el Día Mundial del Agua (March 19) National informative website: Círculo ambiental

http://www.circuloambiental.net/noticias/semanadelagua2012.htm

4. Cine y Ponencia para encontrarnos desde el tema vital del Agua (April 1st) Blogspot: Ecología activa

http://ecologiactiva.blogspot.com/

SOUTH ASIA PART 1: REPORT BY GWP-SAS REGIONAL OFFICE

During the month of March, Regional Office coordinated the financial management activities and communication activities of the Region and liaised with the GWP Secretariat in the partnership application process. Preliminary actions related to the transfer of Regional Chair to Nepal were initiated. Action was initiated to modify the GWP South Asia website in accordance with the format recommended by the GWP and linking with Asia Pacific Adaptation Network (APAN) was implemented.

Regional Office coordinated the inputs to APAN including the e-flyer, a Technical Report and a Strategy Paper on climate change adaptation in South Asia and the role of GWP. The e-flyer was finalized and was distributed at the Asia Pacific Adaption Forum.

Several activities were carried out by the Country Water Partnerships at the World Water Forum held in France, and the Regional Office provided the linkages to GWP Secretariat when requested. The activities are reported in the CWP reports.

Regional Coordinator participated at the APAN networking meeting held in Thailand and participated in the discussions related to current and future activities of the APAN from 11-13 March 2012. Linkages were formed with institutions such as CANSA and ICIMOD, who perform as Sub Regional Node and Thematic Node on Mountains. Regional Coordinator also participated at the Panel on “How does improved management of water for food and agriculture support adaptation?” as a member of the Panel, made a presentation and participated at the discussions.

PART 2: REPORT BY BANGLADESH WATER PARTNERSHIP

1. Participation at 6th

The 6th World Water Forum was held from 12-17 March 2012 at Marseille, France. K. M. Zeba Rahman, Executive Secretary, BWP participated in the forum as the sole representative of BWP.

World Water Forum from 12-17 March 2012 at Marseille, France.

1.1 Participation in Women’s’ Leadership Preparatory Conference from 10-11 March 2012 at

Marseille, France.

On the eve of the 6th World Water Forum (March 10th and 11th), over 100 female and some male participants gathered in Marseille to debate Women’s Leadership in Water and to forge concrete solutions. The preconference agreed on concerted action to make access to water for food, domestic use and income generating activities, a reality for the bottom billion on our Planet who lack such basic needs.

The Women’s pre-conference on Women’s Leadership in Water and Sanitation concentrated on 3 main themes: women’s role in water and food security, community water management and water, and peace and security from a woman’s perspective. On the first day (10 March 2012) of the preconference, Martine Vassal, Deputy Mayor of Marseille welcomed all participants on behalf of the

host city and Alice Bouman-Dentener, President, Woman for Water Partnership welcomed the participants on behalf of the Women for Water Partnership. Civil society organizations presented their case studies and interacted with ministers, representatives from international institutions, government agencies, development organizations and grassroots women organizations to jointly

determine the way forward and develop a road map to implement the agreed principles and policies.

K. M. Zeba Rahman, Executive Secretary of Bangladesh Water Partnership actively participated in this Women’s Leadership Preparatory Conference on 10-11 March 2012. She presented a paper on “Transboundary Issue – South Asia under peace and security from a woman’s perspective” on 10 March 2012. There has always been a shortage of water at some locations at the world at some times. Whenever this occurred, there was competition among people for water which sometimes resulted in conflict. Since water security directly impacts human security, it is a potential source of conflict. Water issues are gradually becoming the prime

focus in interstate relations. Increasing water shortage has made South Asia a water-conflict region. Ms. Zeba Rahman described the transboundary river basins in South Asia and the treaties/agreements on these river basins among these countries. Water distribution, its utilization, its management and above all the hydro-electric power projects affect the upper and lower riparian countries. Water security is gradually becoming an epicenter of interstate relations and water scarcity is increasing the miseries of people of this area. She also highlighted the conflicts occurring in this region due to water sharing. She pointed out that as water shortage is triggering conflict in the region of South Asia, dispute resolution among these countries should be developed to ensure water security and peace in South Asia. As domestic managers, women have an intimate knowledge of water sources, quality, reliability of their own uses of, and need for, improved water supply facilities. Why and how women should be involved in Water Security and Peace building on the transboundary river basins was also presented by Ms. Zeba Rahman. To ensure water security women should be inolved in surface water management as well. Women themselves often feel a strong need for improved water supply facilities for themselves and their families and they are known for organizing, lobbying and protesting in order to effect change in water management. This motivation and self-organization is a vital community resource in Water Security and Peace building.

1.2. Participation on the side event of WfWP titled “Catwalk – Women leadership in Water: Presenting New Thinking New Challenges” on 14 March 2012 at the 6th World Water Forum.

Women for Water partnership (WfWP) held a side event titled “Catwalk – Women leadership in Water: Presenting New Thinking New Challenges” on 14 march 2012 at the 6th World Water Forum. According to the Dublin/Rio Principles for IWRM (1992), women play a central role in the provision, management and safeguarding of water. Women around the globe take up their pivotal role and

K. M. Zeba Rahman presenting a paper at the preparatory conference of WfWP

reach out to governments and the water and development sector to jointly tackle the immense challenge of providing water and sanitation for all.

Presented by a film star and led by women water professional as “Mannequins”, WfWP presented the outcomes of the Preparatory Conference on Women Leadership in Water, highlighting the most critical issues related to women and water. K. M. Zeba Rahman, Executive Secretary of Bangladesh Water partnership was a mannequin of Catwalk to present the key message of Preparatory Conference on Women Leadership in Water.

1.3. Participation in the side event of PWP titled "Implementing IWRM in South Asia through AWPs" on 16 March 2012 at the 6th World Water Forum.

Pakistan Water Partnership (PWP) held a side event titled "Implementing IWRM in South Asia through AWPs" on 16 March 2012 at the 6th World Water Forum. Followings were the issues discussed at the event;

• Making water and sanitation a candidate for indulsive growth through the process of IWRM

• Benefiting from the world best practices

• Sharing experiences of Pakistan and South Asia regarding implementing IWRM at grassroots level

• Partnership development with world water stakeholders

K. M. Zeba Rahman, Executive Secretary of Bangladesh Water Partnership participated in the event and made a power point presentation on “AWPs: Gender Responsive Grassroots Level IWRM Institutions in Bangladesh”. She described the current status and general activities of AWPs in Bangladesh. Ms. Zeba Rahman also highlighted some successful initiatives carried out by AWPs in Bangladesh and the outcomes of these initiatives. She described as to why AWP is a good practice from a Women’s Perspective. The AWPs were designed to translate IWRM concepts on the ground and provide a platform for water related institutional and stakeholder interaction in order to achieve IWRM at local level. Women because of their domestic roles, play a pivotal role in water management since they are the mainstream providers and users of water and beneficiaries of improved water services. Given the right training and exposure women can become potential change agents especially in expanding good practices in water supply, sanitation, management and climate change adaptation.

2. Celebration of World Water Day 2012

To create awareness about the global water crisis, and encourage people to conserve water and ensure integrity in the water sector, BWP celebrated World Water Day 2012 in different ways.

2.1. Celebration with the Government of Bangladesh as a cosponsor of the country wide mega event

This year the Government of Bangladesh celebrated the World Water Day in all the 64 administrative districts of the country. Previously the celebration had been limited to few large cities. For the first time BWP acted as a cosponsor of this country wide mega event.

BWP also participated in the main celebrations, a workshop on “Water & Food Security”. Mr. Ramesh Chandra Sen MP, Honorable Minister, Ministry of Water Resources (MoWR), Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh (GoB) was the Chief Guest and Sekh Altaf Ali, Senior Secretary, MoWR, GoB was the Special Guest of this workshop. Mr. AKM Shahiduzzaman, Director General, Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) Chaired the workshop, while Ms.

Kamrun Nahar Khanam , Additional Secretary, MoWR,

GoB made the opening remarks.

Leading professionals in water and agriculture sector emphasized the significance and importance of Water and Food Security. This interactive and participatory session explored ways to improve water and food security in a word where water is increasingly becoming a scale resource. Dr. Khondaker Azharul Haq, Vice President, BWP participated as a designated discussant on the papers presented. Ms. K. M. Zeba Rahman, Executive Secretary, BWP and Ms. Mukta Akter, Accounts & Administration officer, BWP also participated in the event.

Special news paper supplement published on World Water Day

(cosponsor BWP)

Posters brought out on World Water Day and distributed throughout the country by

the GoB (cosponsor BWP)

Mr. Ramesh Chandra Sen MP, Honorable Minister delivering a speech as Chief Guest

2.2 Participation in the “Human chain” formed in front of Press Club, Dhaka organized by BAWIN and BAPA.

BWP along with BWP Bangladesh Water Integrity Network (BAWIN), Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB), Bangladesh Paribesh Andolon (BAPA) and NGO Forum organized a “Human chain” which was formed in front of Press Club, Dhaka to highlight importance of integrity in the water sector. Ms. K. M. Zeba Rahman, Executive Secretary, BWP and Ms. Mukta Akter, Accounts & Administration officer, BWP also participated in the event.

2.3 Surma Area Water Partnership was held a seminar on Integrated Haor (large natural low land lakes) and Wetland Resources Management for Food & Water Security in observance of World Water Day 2012

A seminar on Integrated Haor and Wetland Resources Management for Food and Water Security in observance of World Water Day 2012 was organized by Surma Area Water Partnership and Center for Environmental and Geographic Information Services (CEGIS). The seminar was held on March 20, 2012 at Hotel Rose View, Sylhet. The purpose of this seminar was to disseminate the concept of haor and wetland resources management to ensure food and water security of Bangladesh.

Dr. Khondaker Azharul Haq delivering a speech as a designated discussant of the workshop

Mr Giasuddin Ahmed Choudhury, Executive Director, CEGIS, presenting the key-note paper

Professor Syed Akmal Mahmood, Vice-Chancellor, Sylhet International University graced the occasion as Chief Guest while Mr. N M Zeaul Alam, Divisional Commissioner, Sylhet was present as Special Guest. The seminar was attended by a cross sectoral participants ranging from civil societies, different government, semi-government and autonomous organizations, NGOs, Universities and print & electronic media.

The seminar started with a recitation from the Holy Quran. The opening remarks were delivered by Rotarian Shafique Ahmed Bakth, President, Rotary Club, Jalalabad, Sylhet. Mr Giasuddin Ahmed Choudhury, Executive Director, CEGIS, presented the Key-note paper on “Integrated Haor and Wetland Resources Management”. In his deliberations, Mr Giasuddin Ahmed Choudhury described the multifarious approaches of development prospects in haor areas. He covered the consequences of different development interventions occurring now, as well as those which would be carried out in and around haor areas. Sustainability of the haor resources was the central theme which was meticulously discussed against the backdrops of climate change.

Following the presentation, the floor was opened for the participants who took part in a discussion. A lively discussion was held with active participation of the audience. In replying to the queries and issues raised during the discussion, Mr. Giasuddin Ahmed Choudhury, Executive Director, CEGIS agreed to note some points in the draft plan. He specifically pointed out that Tipai Mukh hydroelectric project located in the Indian side of the border is still considered to be controversial. He said that the concerns raised over the issue are pertinent though may not be conclusive at this point as the whole scenario is yet to be cleared. Among other concerns, registration fee issues regarding land transfer in haors, inclusion of WTP, revisiting of leasing system of water bodies in haor areas by the government, fitting the master plan against the contexts of long term plans like Delta Plan 2100, National Water Management Plan and National Agricultural Master Plan etc. can be addressed in the plan. All other points raised will be considered in due course, he added. He thanked all the participants and guests for their active participation in the seminar.

Finally, Rtn. IPDG Dr. Monzurul Haque Choudhury summed up the program and ended the seminar with a vote of thanks.

3. Executive Committee Meeting

The 36th EC Meeting and 1st for the year 2012 was held on 27 March 2012. The principal agenda was the review of the progress of the implementation of 2012 work plan and audit of BWP for the year 2011, which has already been completed and sent to GWP- SAS. All the pending applications were approved for membership in the meeting.

4. Halda Area Water Partnership held an advocacy meeting on “Permanent Fish Sanctuary in Halda River”

An awareness program to save Halda River from encroachment and pollution was held on 31 March 2012 at Mid Maddasha Shah Akbaria School & College Hall in Hathazari upozila of Chittagong district organized by Halda Area Water Partnership with assistance from NOWZUWAN, a local NGO. The event was presided over by Dr. Khondaker Azharul Haq, Vice President of BWP.

Ms. Shejada Begum, Vice Chairman – Hathazari Upazilla, Abul Hossain, Chairman – South Maddrasha Union Parishad, Syfuddin Mahmood, Principal - Mid Maddasha Shah Akbaria School & College, Md. Jakir Hossain, Upazilla Fishery Officer – Hathazari Upazilla, Mr. Kashob Kumar, President Press Club – Hathazari were also present as Special guests and participated in the discussion.

Professor Dr. Md. Ali Azady, Researcher – Halda River and Professor, Department of Zoology, Chittagong University delivered the key note paper. Over 100 stakeholders from different sections of the society including representative of the Civil Society, journalists, fishermen, women and youth were present.

The speakers explained that Halda river is the largest spawning “ground” for Carp type of fish in the country and as such makes a significant contribution to the economy. But over the years due to encroachment and pollution the important breeding grounds are being depleted with severe adverse impact on fish production. They urged the proactive involvement of the population of the area to strengthen the Government’s effort to stop encroachment and pollution of the rivers. They suggested that the elected representatives should play the key role. In his presidential

speech Dr. K. A. Haq gave an assurance that BWP will assist Halda Area Water Partnership in its endeavor to save the Halda River through it advocacy program.

PART 3: REPORT BY BHUTAN WATER PARTNERSHIP Report on World Water Day Celebration on 22nd

March, 2012

Bhutan Water Partnership in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and SNV-Bhutan held celebrations to mark World Water Day 2012. The purpose of the program was to create public awareness on water and its related issues and at the same time to plan actions on the ground for positive changes. Ceremonial functions were carried out, followed by an exhibition and performances presented by over 1500 students and teachers from 16 schools. Simultaneously, eight schools also took action by adopting a number of streams and a section of the main river flowing through the heart of the capital city. After the official adoption of the river and the streams, the students, teachers and local community members conducted cleaning of the stream and public awareness activities.

The schools presented a mixture of well thought out presentations on the themes that were adopted for the day such as:

Water for Sanitation,

Water for Hygiene,

Prof. Dr. Md. Ali Azady presenting the Key-note paper

Water for Drinking and

Water for Environment

A number of government agencies that are stakeholders in water issues participated in the program either as silent observers or as actors to create public awareness. The Opposition Leader Lyonpo Tshering Tobgay who was the Guest of Honour, rightly pointed out in his key note address that – “We have to be judicious while using water, and that’s the only way we can conserve water.” One of the Principals of a school who was present during the celebration stated that - “Conservation of water should be an everyday realization and not just a reminder on this particular day.”

The Bhutan Water Partnership focused its celebrations mainly on river and stream adoption by schools in the capital city that had shown an interest in supporting such initiatives. The objective of the program was to involve and delegate responsibilities to these schools in protecting the river Wangchu and few tributary streams. It was observed that in the recent years due to increase in the city population and the people’s wasteful consumption pattern, the river and the streams running through the city have become partially polluted. Therefore there was a need for an action. This initiative of the partnership would help to maintain the quality of water in the river and preserve the eco-system around it.

The Partnership will continue working with the schools to achieve its goal of “Clean Rivers for Healthy Environment.”

Part 4. REPORT BY INDIA WATER PARTNERSHIP (Prepared by; Dr. Veena Khanduri, Executive Secretary, IWP & Mangla Rai, Research Assistant)

A.1 Stakeholder Consultation for Promotion of an Area Water Partnership for Prevention of Pollution to River Ganges in Zazmau Area (Municipal Zone-2) of Kanpur City (Uttar Pradesh)

The GWP-India is supporting the Society for Promotion of Wastelands Development (SPWD), New Delhi to promote an Area Water Partnership in the Zazmau area of Kanpur City, Uttar Pradesh to prevent urban and industrial pollution in the river Ganga.

This initiative aims to facilitate development of a model of citizen participation and partnership with Urban Local government, local industries, Universities and State government institutions at the Municipal ward level and Zonal level (Area), and to demonstrate an effective strategy to address the Ganga pollution issue under the overall framework of National Ganga River Basin Area Plan (NGRBAP). The South Eastern Region of the city lying along the South bank of river Ganges has been selected for this work (Zone 2, ward 10 of the Kanpur Nagar Nigam (KNN)) called Zazmau area, which is famous for being home to the tannery and leather industry in Kanpur. The overall objective of this

Area Water Partnership is to develop a joint stakeholder forum in the Zazmau area to discuss the pollution issues and possible strategies and actions to find solutions.

During March, 2012 the GWP-India has undertaken following activities with support of SPWD and its strategic partners; Shramik Bharti and Sach Sach Society.

Interactive meetings with the residents of the rural Municipal ward in this zone (Ward 10 of the Zone 2 of Kanpur Nagar Nigam) were held. In addition, meetings were also held in one of the urban wards of this zone (Ward No 86 of Zone 2). These wards lie in the South Eastern periphery of the City along the river Ganges where the rural community is inundated with treated and untreated sewerage of the city while the urban areas suffer from lack of cleanliness and sanitation.

A study has been carried out with the participation of men, women and children of the communities to assess the following;

• Status of access to water, sanitation and health environment

• Prevalence of water borne and water related diseases in the population

• Perceptions of the respective role of residents and Kanpur Nagar Nigam towards improving the access to water and sanitation in the area

• Perceptions on the role of residents in preserving the purity of River Ganges

• The results of these studies are being analyzed and will be presented in ward level consultation meetings in April 2012.

The residents of these wards have agreed to form ward level citizens’ committees. The process will be given a formal shape next month. The ward level committees will prepare ward level sanitation plans and then plan advocacy with Kanpur Nagar Nigam to include these in the City Sanitation Plan.

A2. Celebration of World Water Day-2012 by GWP-India

A 2.1 World Water Day Celebration at Kholan village of Titlagada block, Bolangir district (Orissa)

GWP-India with the support of partner NGO Udyama, Bhubaneshwar celebrated World Water Day on 22nd March, 2012 and conducted a workshop on community livelihood resilience on climate change. Both events were organized at Kholan G.P Head Quarter of Kholan of Titlagada block, Bolangir district (Orissa). Women SHG members, Anganwadi, ASHA workers, youths, children government officials and the PRI members participated in the World Water Day Celebration. Titlagad is a hot and drought prone area with severe drinking water problem.

A rally with the participants with play cards and banner depicting the message of World Water Day started from the Kholan. The main objective of the rally was to educate the community on how to obtain and conserve the fresh water and save water at an individual in the community, thus increasing availability of water for households.

The rally thereafter assembled at Panchayat meeting hall for discussion regarding the need of celebrating the World Water Day. The workshop started in the presence of Block Development Officer of Titilagarh Block and Executive Officer. At the outset Mr. Narayan Barik, Coordinator of UDYAMA welcomed all the distinguished delegates followed by discussions on the goal and objective of the World Water Day and later the workshop objectives were given by Cluster coordinator of UDYAMA Mr. Manohar Sunani.

Chief Guest Mr. Mahendra Pradhan, Block Development Officer of Titilagarh Block addressed the gathering about the water situation at present and in future, and encouraged the participants to save and protect water in their locality. He also provided information about the Govt. scheme and programme, water related programmes such as MNREGS, KBK funds, Western Orissa Development Council fund, Soil Conservation and Watershed development schemes, how to recharge ground water, etc. and how these programmes are helping in ground water recharging and addressing climate change vulnerabilities through the planting of tree, environment protection and road connectivity for communication.

He also encouraged all the participants to create new ponds in the land for the storage of water, groundwater recharge and irrigation facility. He also informed the participants that the State Govt. would give Rs. 50000/- (Fifty thousand rupees) to every BPL card holder family to create a new pond on their own land.

During discussions, the SHG members raised issues about the Tube wells and water problem in the kholan G.P. It was stated that most of the tubes well are not working and some of are damaged, while community reservoirs have silted up, dried up and wells are also drying up. It was pointed out that there is a serious drinking water shortage and that these issues would become very acute in coming days if this trend continued.

The community raised rights based issues regarding installation of tube wells and demanded more wells as population has increased substantially. Most of them are forced to collect polluted water from river and ponds causing serious health problems. Hearing from community, the B.D.O assured the community that their water problems would be fulfilled and resolved. He further assured the gathering, that in case of any delay; the water tank would provide and distribute fresh drinking water in every village of the Titilagarh block as this block has a gross shortage of drinking water.

The Executive Officer also spoke about the World Water Day. He described the water and food security and agricultural situation in the locality due to impact of climate change, ways of protecting the environment and saving the water and earth. Mr. Dharmendra Bhoi, the Sarapanch of Kholan spoke about the sanitation and water problems of the Kholan Gram Panchayat. He encouraged SHG

World Water Day celebration at Kholan G.P Head Quarter of Kholan of Titlagada block, Bolangir district

(Orissa)

members to save the money through the Bank and undertake some profitable activities for their group and individual growth.

A2.2 World Water Day Celebration at Dhenkanal District, Orissa

GWP-India organized the World Water Day or Vishwa Jala Divas with the support of partner NGO; Arun Institute of Rural Affairs, Dhenkanal District, Orissa and the participation of school children from Kadua and Bhagirathipur villages of Dhenkanal district, Orissa. More than 250 students both boys & girls marched the village streets with placards bearing slogans ‘save water’, ‘save our planet’ in their attempt to educate and improve awareness among the community members.

Apart from the school teachers, school committee members, Director Arun Institute of Rural Affairs, Parimal Area Water Partnership Convener and volunteers played a supportive role in observing and reminding the community of the Day’s importance.

A2.3 Celebration of World Water Day at Greater NOIDA and Meerut City, Uttar Pradesh

On the occasion of World Water Day, GWP-India with the support of its network partner Janhit Foundation, Meerut, organized an Inter college debate competition at Greater NOIDA March 21, 2012 at Radha Govind College and on 22nd April, 2012, the World Water Day was celebrated at Deewan VS Institute of Engineering, Meerut. The events took place with the participation of 16 teams from different colleges. The topic of the debate was ‘Water should be considered a National Property’ and the students shared their views on ownership and non-ownership of water resources as a National property (national or private). The guests at Radha Govind College were Mr. Sanjay Rana (Director, Aqua Foundation) and Dr. Veena Khanduri (Executive Secretary, IWP).

Rally by School children on World Water Day at Kadua and Bhagirathipur villages of Dhenkanal district, Orissa

Similarly, the Chief Guest at the Meerut function were Ms. Madhu Gujjar (Mayor – Meerut) and the other honored guests were Dr. Veena Khanduri (Executive Secretary, IWP), Mr. Prabhat Roy (Retd. PCS Officer) and Ms. Anvita Aggarwal (Professor, R G College, Meerut). Dr. Sanjeev Kaushik (Director – Deewan College), Dr. Vineet Kumar (Dean – Deewan College) and Dr. P. K. Aggarwal (Director – Deewan Management College) were also present at the event as special guests.

Eco-club of Deewan College also showed an active participation in the competition. MIET, Meerut ranked first; IIMT ranked second and Deewan institute came third in the debate. The winners were awarded with a trophy and all the participants were given a certificate by India Water Partnership and Janhit Foundation.

A2.4 Celebration of World Water Day at Meerut, Uttar Pradesh

GWP-India with the support of partner NGO; Neer Foundation (Meerut) organized one more event on the occasion of World Water Day, at Meerut from 22nd March, 2012 to 24th March, 2012.

On March 22nd, a walk for water was organized in which 200 school children, social workers and community members participated. The walk started from Chaudhary Charan Singh Park situated in the heart of the city, crossed District Magistrate office and ended back at Chaudhary Charan Singh park. Dr. Veena Khanduri, Executive Secretary, GWP-India showed the green flag to flag off the march.

Mr. Gajendra Singh, BSA Meerut instructed the children on how water conservation should be done at each level. He gave a message to all the participants that we should all become ‘Water Saviors’ and conserve each drop. Dr. Veena Khanduri informed the children that this year’s theme of World

Dr. Veena Khanduri, Executive Secretary, GWP-India showing the green flag for the

water walk

Water walk by school children at M t

School children of BDS School, Meerut receiving Certificates for their participation in the Inter-

school poster competition

Water Day is ‘Water and Food Security’ since it is well known that food availability is linked with water.

During the walk, all students carried banners and posters displaying water conservation and water quality related slogans. The students while marching shouted messages on different ways to conserve water and distributed informative pamphlets. About 10 schools participated in the event.

An inter-school poster competition was also organized at BDS Institute wherein students painted drawings on the topics related to ‘Water Conservation and Pollution’. About 80 students of class 6th to 8th from different schools participated in the competition.

A2.5 Celebration of World Water Day at Indore, Madhya Pradesh

India Water Partnership (GWP India) Central Zonal Water Partnership Coordinating Agency Navdeep, organized World Water Day 2012, in Indore city, Madhya Pradesh, to integrate school education with water saving, health, hygiene and sanitation awareness. The programme which was first of its kind, has not only generated thinking among school children on water conservation, hygiene and sanitation but also motivated school teachers to provide information to students as to how habits of using safe water can be improved among children living in Slum areas.

The World Water Day planning started around three months ago and several informal meetings with Education department, Sociologists and environmentalists were conducted by Central Zonal Coordinator. Mrs. Rajani Jadon, District Education Officer, Indore, was particularly keen on organizing such a programme in a girls’ school as, she pointed out, “the burden of collecting water for family lies on womenfolk and impure water adds their woes in the form of diseases among family members.” Hence she identified Govt. Malav Girls’ High School, M.O.G. Lines, Indore- Shala Sankul Kendra i.e. school complex centre, an administrative unit for 16 Middle and Primary schools- to be the centre for initiating the programme “Awareness on Water in School Education”.

During the week prior to World Water Day, a number of activities, as directed by Mr. Shashi Kant Guberele Principal and head of the Shala Sankul Kendra, were organized by Head Masters and teachers in schools. Students were asked to write essays and poems etc. on importance of water. The finale was on 22 March, when a two hour programme was organized at Shala Sankul Kendra- Govt. Malav Kanya High School. The theme of the programme was “ Paani ki Bachat : Bachchon ki Sehat” (Save Water : save health of children). Mr. Uday Shankar Vyas, Head Master, Govt. Malav Kanya (Girls’) Middle School No. -1 (In-charge of the activity) presented a summary of the one week

Celebration of World Water Day at Indore, Madhya Pradesh

activities with the guest and children. The selected students read their writings on water and related issues. An oath to save water was taken by all attending the function. Chief Guest of the function, renowned environmentalist Padmshri Mr. M.G.K.Menon , in his address called students “ Jal- Sevak and Jal Sevikayen” (Volunteers to save water). He gave many practical tips to save water in routine life. City corporator Mr. Sudhir Dedge, presiding over the function, requested teachers and students to play an important role in conserving water. Mr. Ravindra Shukla , Chairman of Nava deep Voluntary Organisation, as main speaker, described how curriculum refinement is being done in Kerala to make students aware on water crisis. He also said according to the Hague declaration “Water is everybody’s business”, teachers have to play roles on par with water resources engineers or economists. Health, hygiene and sanitation issues are related with water.

Mrs. Vandana Vyas, a teacher in a primary school located in Bara Mattha, a slum area in Indore; was honored by the chief guest for her devoted work in educating children and their parents on the use of safe water, health, hygiene and sanitation. She has been carrying out her work despite many difficulties in the area. She narrated her experiences in the slum area and how she managed to receive the cooperation of local residents. The best students were awarded for their creative writings and speeches and an exhibition with display material and good publications on importance of safe water use and children’s health was also organized in the school. The programme was conducted by Ms. Pratibha Raghuwanshi.

A3. Consultation Workshop on Water and Livelihood Promotion in Kamakhya Nagar Region, Dhenkanal District, Orissa

With a view to strengthening Parimal Area Water Partnership (PAWP), GWP-India with the support of its partner NGO, Arun Institute of Rural Affairs organized a Consultation Workshop on Water and Livelihood Promotion at Public Works Department, Inspection Bungalow, Khatuahata, Dhenkanal district, Orissa on 29th March, 2012. This consultation workshop was attended by PAWP members, Local Area Water Partnership (LAWP) members, farmers, social workers, senior citizens, PRI members, Pani Panchayat members, Women Self Help Groups and community leaders of Kamakhya Nagar region, Dhenkanal district, Orissa.

At the workshop, Mr. G. P. Nayak, Ex-Banker & Social Activist, Mr. P. K. Sahoo, Ex-Public Prosecutor & a senior farmer and VDC President and Mr. A. Rath, Development Researcher & PAWP Trustee were also present. Mr. A Rath explained to the participants about strengthening of PAWP to enable it to systematically work on water, livelihood and allied activities in the villages of Kamakhya Nagar region. The major issues discussed in the workshop were;

Consultation Workshop on Water and Livelihood Promotion in Kamakhya Nagar Region,

Dhenkanal District Orissa

Formation of village Livelihood and Natural Resource Promotion Committees

Re-structuring of Pani Panchayats

Collaboration of PAWP with other local level/district level Livelihood and Natural Resource Promotion Groups

The experience of canal renovation works on Indrajit Micro Irrigation Project was shared with the participants, wherein LAWP interventions forced the concerned Engineers to sit with the PAWP members and plan alternative but useful renovation components of the project. After giving Memorandum to the Executive Engineer (Minor Irrigation), Indrajit Project, the District Head of the Minor Irrigation System re-planned the works with the villagers of 3 LAWPs (Khuntabati, Khatuahata and Salpada) for executing the same. The efforts of LAWP and PAWP have shown that the real concern and lobbying of State Govt. officials produced a real action with corrective measures for promotion of livelihood options in the villages.

Next the LAWP and PAWP are planning to take up the issue of the defunct state of water harvesting structures on the Indrajit Nallah, due to which the villagers of Kotagara and Kamagara are facing loss of crops and livelihood options.

During next few months the PAWP will address the following tasks:

Resolving of water crisis of Kamagara village which is still unresolved even after public agitation a year ago

Facilitating formation of village Livelihood and Environment Committees as micro level bodies

Leading a delegation for dialogue with the District irrigation and administration departments

Carrying out a quasi-technical physical survey of the entire area of Indrajit nalla.

A4. Networking with NGOs working on water issues in Madhya Pradesh and conducting a meeting of NGOs and Government Agencies in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh for a discussion on 'Water Regulation Authority', its roles and functions in planning and management of river basins, and the need for a 'River Basin Agency' Act in Madhya Pradesh

The workshop proposed by West Zone Water Partnership (WZWP) to be organized during March, 2012 for NGOs and Government agencies in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh has been postponed and will now take place during April, 2012 since the Secretary Maharashtra Water Resources Regulatory Authority (MWRRA) and the Coordinator of WZWP were busy attending World Water Forum (WWF).

The Coordinator of WZWP, Professor Vijay Paranjpye participated in a special session organized by Both Ends (Netherlands) at WWF to present the citizens and civil societies contribution to IWRM. The objective of the citizens’ forum was to demonstrate the relevance of participation and equitable management of water resources based on knowledge and initiative of local actors and to discuss the

concrete steps taken in selected 15 river basins across the World. Prof. Paranjpye presented the work done by WZWP Coordinating agency (Gumukh Trust for Environment and Sustainable Development, Pune) in the Bhima and Wainganga river basins and emphasized on the process through which inter-sectoral plans were integrated.

Prof. Vijay Paranjpye spoke in detail about the rivers in India and the work done by Gomukh Trust and the West Zone Water Partnership in the Bhima and Wainganga river basins. The Wainganga river basin planning and the outcomes so far were discussed in detail. Both Ends invited Mr. Suresh Sodal, Secretary MWRRA and Dr. D.M.More (Technical Advisor, Godavari River Basin Corporation) to give an official response to the presentation made by Prof. Vijay Paranjpye. Mr. Sodal spoke about the close interrelationship between the MWRRA, Gomukh Trust and members of the WZWP, which had made it possible to establish a participatory decision making process while determining the water rates, bulk water entitlements to water users’ associations and explained that now the processes were firmly embedded in the civil society domain. He emphasized that the decisions taken by MWRRA during the last five years have demonstrated the participatory process.

A5. Participation in Workshops/Meetings/Seminar

GWP-India network partner Development Alternatives (DA), New Delhi organized a consultation meeting on ”Household Treatment System and Safe Storage: Promotion and Scale-up” on 16th March, 2012 at its Headquarter at New Delhi. Dr. Veena Khanduri, Executive Secretary participated in the workshop from GWP-India.

During the workshop, participants were briefed about the project details. The pilot project is being executed in 15 slums of Delhi covering around 10,000 households, with the aim of enabling access to safe drinking water for all through Solar Disinfection (SODIS) technology. During the workshop, Dr. K Vijyalakshmi of DA, Ms. Kavneet Kaur of DA, Samuel Luzi of Eawag Aquatic Research Institute, Dr. Amit Nair, WSP-SA (World Bank) consultant, Ms. Megha Das, DA, Mr. Raktim Ray, DA participated.

As part of feed-back, Dr. Veena Khanduri suggested the inclusion of revised communication and advocacy strategy as per the evaluation findings of SODIS programme in Delhi. GWP-India will support DA to take up the awareness campaign for promoting point of use water treatment methods at household level.

Part 5. REPORT BY NEPAL WATER PARTNERSHIP

1. GWP Nepal/JVS at Nepal National Water Week (NNWW), 2012

World Water Day (WWD) on 22th March, 2012 and World Meteorological Day (WMD) on 23rd March, 2012 were celebrated this year too with a week-long program for which NNWW Main Organizing Committee was formed under the chairmanship of Secretary of Water and Energy Commission Secretariat (WECS). The committee comprised members from government, non-

government institutions, academic institutions and business houses, GWP Nepal/JVS being one of them.

Mr. Iswer Raj Onta, Chair, GWP Nepal/JVS attended the Opening Ceremony of NNWW-2012 on 16th March. Mr. Surya Nath Upadhyay, Secretary General, GWP Nepal/JVS, chaired the session on National Symposium on “Water and Food Security: Challenges and Opportunities” held on 22nd March at the Hotel Everest, Kathmandu which was jointly organized by WECS and NNWW Organizing committee 2012.

2. Policy Dialogue

Considering that an intellectual discourse on regulated use of groundwater is timely and important, GWP Nepal/JVS and Nepal Engineering College (nec) jointly held a policy dialogue program on Groundwater Security in Kathmandu Valley on 20th March, 2012 at the Everest Hotel, New Baneshwor, Kathmandu. As intended, the program brought together policy personnel and water professionals from relevant government and development organizations, academicians, researchers and students, to discuss the emerging issues facing the groundwater security and regulated groundwater use in

Kathmandu Valley.

The first session by the students and faculty members at nec, was devoted to presentations on the state of groundwater use and commercialization of groundwater that led to identification of issues facing groundwater and emerging water security concerns in Kathmandu. Dr. Hari Krishna Shrestha, Principal of nec chaired the session and facilitated the program.

This second session was dedicated to facilitated discussion on the regulated groundwater use in Kathmandu. Various water professionals expressed their views and comments on groundwater issues in Kathmandu Valley. Mr. Hari Dhakal, Chairperson, Kathmandu Valley Water Supply Management Board (KVWSMB) responded to queries raised during the program and appreciated the concerns and suggestions.

3. Appointment of a Research Consultant

Mr. Dibesh Shrestha, a student from Nepal Engineering College with his presentation on the status of water tanker

operation in Kathmandu

GWP Nepal/JVS has appointed a Research Consultant to collect water related laws under the program entitled "Collection of Water related Laws, Acts, Rules, Directives, Guidelines in English and Nepali (Local Language) Language".

4. Contract with Water and Energy Commission Secretariat (WECS), Government of Nepal

A significant gap is identified in the evolving water regime in terms of IWRM policy. The existing water development and use policies (water supply, irrigation, hydropower and environment) are very sectoral and this has serious implications for optimum and sustainable water use and development. Such a situation leads to water use and development conflict, non-cooperation, water right-access and allocation-issues. WECS has initiated IWRM policy formulation work to fulfill this gap. It has prepared initial draft of the IWRM policy. Through the proposed assignment, GWP Nepal/JVS, which signed a MoU with WECS on 2nd August, 2007 for co-operation on integrated water resources issues, attempts to complete the WECS-initiated work by preparing the final draft version of the policy document.

In this connection, a contract was signed on 14th March, 2012 between GWP Nepal/JVS and WECS to prepare the final draft of Integrated Water Resources Policy for the adoption of the Government of Nepal. Mr. Surya Nath Upadhyay, Secretary General, GWP Nepal/JVS is the team leader and Mr. Som Nath Poudel, Vice Chair, GWP Nepal/JVS is the team member of the assignment.

5. 130th Executive Committee Meeting (ECM)

The 130th Executive Committee Meeting (ECM) of Global Water Partnership Nepal /JVS was held on 14th March, 2012 in Kathmandu. The meeting discussed the programmatic and administrative issues of Global Water Partnership Nepal/JVS.

Part 6. REPORT BY PAKISTAN WATER PARTNERSHIP

1. Pakistan Water Partnership (PWP) held a national seminar on 3rd March 2012 involving the partners in PWP preparations for 6th World Water Forum at Serena Hotel Islamabad. At this seminar outline of presentations of Pakistan to be made by PWP and the contents of the side event of PWP to be held on 16 March 2012 during the 6th World Water Forum were discussed at length. The event was chaired by Sardar Muhammad Tariq, Regional Chair GWP-SAS, and co-chaired by Mr. Naseer Ahmad Gillani, Chairman, Pakistan Water Partnership (PWP). Over forty seven (47) delegates from Government, water utilities, academia, private sector, NGOs, water stakeholders and experts attended the seminar and contributed towards improvement of the contents of the presentations.

2. Mr. Naseer Ahmad Gillani, Chairman PWP; Dr. Pervaiz Amir, Partner PWP; Ms. Nasreen Iqbal, Partner PWP; Mr. Karamat Ali, Country Coordinator PWP participated in the 6th World Water Forum at Marseille, France from 12-17 March 2012.

• During 6th World Water Forum, Mr. Karamat Ali, Country Coordinator PWP attended the inaugural session, technical sessions of all six days and closing ceremony. He presented introduction Session 2.1.1, coordinated by PWP in collaboration with UNESCO-ICIWaRM in Session 2.1 INTRO – Using Our Water Resources Smartly: Getting Water Resources Management Right on 12th March 2012 at 1700 – 1900 hours in Hall Europ-8;

Sardar Muhammad Tariq, Regional Chair, GWP-SAS delivering inaugural address and explaining the contents of the presentations to be made at 6th World Water Forum

• He presented a case study titled “Implementing IWRM in Pakistan” on 13th March in Session 2.1.1 Getting Started: Choosing an Entry Point for a National IWRM Strategy at 830 to 1030 hours in Hall Europe-7.

• He also presented another case study titled “Reducing Flood Vulnerabilities in Pakistan: Indus Basin - Lessons Learned” on 15th March 2012 at 1100 – 1300 hours in Session 1.4.5 Getting Started on Mitigation Strategies for Disaster Risk Reduction in Developing Countries.

• Mr Ali also organized the PWP side event titled “Implementing IWRM in South Asia through Area Water Partnerships” on 16th March 2012 at 1315 – 1415 hours in Hall PC-11 – Morgiou.

• Mr. Naseer Ahmad Gillani, Chairman, Pakistan Water Partnership (PWP) attended the inaugural session, technical sessions of all six days and closing ceremony of the 6th World Water Forum.

• He also chaired the PWP side event titled “Implementing IWRM in South Asia through Area Water Partnerships” on 16th March 2012 at 1315 – 1415 hours in Hall PC-11 – Morgiou. The presenters of the side event included UNESCO’s Mr. Toshihiro Sonoda whose presentation was entitled “Water and Global Cooperation”; NARBO’s Mr. Tadashige Kawasaki whose presentation was entitled “Linking NARBO initiative with Area Water Partnerships in South Asia”; Bangladesh Water Partnership’s Ms. K. M. Zeba Rahman, AWPs: Gender Responsive Grassroots Level IWRM Institutions in Bangladesh; and ICID’s Mr Avinash Tyagi.

• Dr. Pervaiz Amir, Partner GWP/PWP acted as the rapporteur of the Session 2.1.1: Getting Started: Choosing an Entry Point for a National IWRM Strategy at 830 to 1030 hours in Hall Europe-7 and presented his report to the WWF6 Secretariat at the conclusion the session.

• Some pictures of the participants are given below:

Mr. Naseer Ahmad Gillani, Chairman, PWP chairing PWP Side Event at 6th World Water Forum, Marseille, France on 16th March 2012 together with other presenters from UNESCO, NARBO, Bangladesh Water Partnership and ICID.

Dr. Pervaiz Amir and Mr. Karamat Ali visited ANS Stall in the Exhibition Hall where Pakistan’s water supply and sanitation presentation was being displayed.

Mr. Karamat Ali, Country Coordinator PWP with Dr. Kulwant Singh, Advisor, UN Habitat India.

Getting Started Choosing an Entry Point for a National IWRM Strategy – Mr. Karamat Ali, Country Coordinator presenting IWRM Case Study from Pakistan.

3. Pakistan Water Partnership (PWP) and its Area Water Partnerships (AWPs) actively celebrated the World Water Day 2012 on 22 March 2012 at Islamabad, Dera Ismail Khan, Quetta, Mastung, Lahore, Sanghar and in many other cities of Pakistan. Below are photographs of the WWD awareness walk organized at Islamabad:

Famous Cartoonist Ms. Gogi delivering awareness message to the participants of Awareness Walk.

World Water Day Participants gathering for Awareness Walk in Islamabad on 22 March.

4. World Water Day 2012 celebrations by AWPs:

4.1 Following are the pictures of Word Water Day Celebrations undertaken by Southern Districts AWP in Dera Ismail Khan on 22nd March 2012. The event was celebrated at Stars Foundation School, University Road, Dera Ismail Khan. The students volunteered their services and demonstrated enthusiasm for the activity. They also hired services of Mr. Rehmatullah and Mr. Farooq to help them reach out to local communities. As a whole it was a successful event, thanks to Mr. Shahjahan Bhatti, Chairperson, Southern Districts AWP. The photographs are also uploaded on Tripwow with the link http://tripwow.tripadvisor.com/tripwow/ta-048f-0a34-cb7e?em=1&st=88599464

4.2 Bolan and Sarawan AWPs celebrated World Water Day in Quetta and Mastung on 22 March 2012 and displayed awareness banners at prominent places in both cities. Awareness material was distributed among general public and school students.

5. Regional Chair, GWP-SAS/Executive Director, PWP attended the 64rd Board of Directors Meeting of Peshawar Electricity Company (PESCO) at Peshawar on 27th March 2012 and contributed to decision-making on energy management and administrative matters of the Electricity Distribution Company.

6. The PWP office was visited by the following partners/experts during March 2012 to enhance collaborative efforts for imparting water awareness and implementation of Integrated Water Resources Management in the country:

• Dr. Pervaiz Amir, Director, Asianics Agro-Dev International, Islamabad.

• Mr. Tahir Shah, Auditor, TSCO, Islamabad.

• Mr. Muhammad Gulzar, AGN International, Islamabad.

• Dr. Ibrahim Abbasi, ATV, Islamabad.

Part 7. REPORT BY SRI LANKA WATER PARTNERSHIP

The 3rd Programme Committee Meeting of SLWP was held on 6th March. Focus was on WWD activities and preparation for young water professional’s symposium later in the year and on the UN Asia Pacific Adaptation Network Activity being undertaken by SLWP on behalf of GWP SAS as theme leader for water. The first Steering Committee meeting of SLWP for 2012 is scheduled for 9th April.

World Water Day Activities; Adjustment to planned WWD activities had to be made since most of the activity coordinators and resource persons were away at the WWF6 in Marseille. The Gender and Water Dialogue in Puttalam organized as a WWD activity will now be held on 2nd and 3rd April.

The annual programme for schools to mark water day arranged by the Maha Oya AWP in collaboration with the local school authorities, was held this year as well. It was confined to an essay competition on Conservation of Water, unlike in previous years where debates were also held. 145 students from schools in the Mawanella area participated and prizes/certificates will be awarded for the selected essays and posters at a ceremony to be held on 22nd April at Molagoda Maha Vidyalaya in Kegalle.

The Schools programme organized by the Nilwala AWP and Rhuhuna University and originally scheduled for 24th March for schools in Matara has been postponed on request of the school authorities due to advancement of exams etc and now will be held in late April after the school holidays. The IWRM booklet to be published by SLWP to be used under the Sisu Jala Hamuwa /Water Messenger schools programme as developed by Dr. Chintha Rupasinghe of the University of Rhuhuna has been received and is being edited by SLWP for publication. The schools WWD programme in Gampola too has been postponed for late April after the school vacation.

Chair SLWP, Vice Chair SLWP, Secretary Nilwala AWP and several SLWP Partners participated at the 6th World Water Forum held in Marseilles.

As a follow up to the discussion on 24th February in Matara on the salinity barrier on the Nilwala River, that was organized by the Nilwala AWP and SLWP, Secretary of the Nilwala AWP- Prof Champa Navaratne of Rhuhuna University was requested to make a presentation on the issues involved to H.E. the President. This was done on 27th March at the Presidents Office at a discussion at which local farmer representatives and the relevant agency heads participated. The role played by the AWP/SLWP in helping to bring this issue up for early resolution is a key indicator of its role as an acceptable honest broker. The salinity barrier will now be constructed at the optimum location.

IWMI launched a new website to coincide with WWD –Ripples on Water - www.RipplesOnWater.org giving the opportunity for SLWP to highlight water activities requiring external donor support. The first such activity in Aranayake (Maha Oya AWP) is highlighted as a Community Wide Water Programme seeking a donor commitment of Rs 900,000/-. Link under http://www.ripplesonwater.org/DevelopmentProjects.aspx .This offers the opportunity to seek funding for SLWP activities under IWMI brand to attract donors. The SLWP logo is featured on the site as well.

Chair SLWP is a member of the National Sector Coordination Committee on Water and Sanitation (NSCM-WATSAN) and participated at the Committee meetings at the Ministry of Water Supply and

Drainage on 27th January, 24th February and 30th March. Chair also serves on the Ministry Sub Committee on Salinity and as Trustee of the National Trust for Community Water.