Water resources users‘ associations (WRUA) are made up of water users and land owners along the rivers. They are formed to manage and conserve shared water resources.
Their main objectives are to reduce water conflicts, ensure water supply and protect ecosystems along river known as riparian zones.
Establishment
In Kenya, WRUA first began forming in the 1990’s. They are established by communities along rivers and guarantee the participation of their members in all management decisions taken on the use of the river water.
Conflict Resolution
Conflict is resolved through equal distribution of resources for up and downstream users among communities. 70% of water resources allocated to communities while 30% is left for the riparian land and ecosystems. Riparian land protection is realized through training members to conserve existing and plant seedlings within the riparian land.
Spring protection has been done by building a wall around the spring to take care of erosion and mudslides. Experience shows, that dialogues between the communities is the best method to solve conflict.
Benefits of WRUA
WRUA provides equal distribution of water, helps mediate among stakeholders and promote land and water management practice.
