The Centre for Development and Governance (CDG) conducted a baseline assessment on Water and Natural Resource Management Committees (WNRMCs) in ten target kebeles of Miyo and Moyale districts of Borena Zone. The assessment done as part of the RECAP Project was aimed to strengthen existing committees and facilitate the establishment of new ones in kebeles where such structures did not exist thereby enhancing community institutions responsible for sustainable water and natural resource governance.
The assessment was done to evaluate capacity of existing WNRMCs; identify institutional strengths and capacity gaps; and establish committees where necessary. As part of the assessment it collected baseline information on committee membership, leadership structures, representation, and operational capacity to inform future training, mentoring, and technical support interventions.
The assessment conducted from 28 July to 5 August 2026 in Miyo and Moyale districts began with consultative and orientation meetings involving representatives from the District Water Office, Agriculture Office (Natural Resources department), and community volunteers. During these meetings, participants were oriented on the assessment methodology, committee establishment procedures, roles and responsibilities, data collection tools, and reporting requirements while reaching a common understanding on the implementation process.
Following the orientation, community volunteers, under the close technical guidance and supervision of the CDG project team, conducted field assessments across all ten target kebeles. The assessment examined the existence, composition, functionality, inclusiveness, leadership, and operational capacity of the Water and Natural Resource Management Committees. Where committees were absent or found to be weak, volunteers facilitated their establishment or strengthening ensuring the meaningful participation of women, youth, and other key community representatives.
Throughout the assessment the CDG project team closely monitored the field activities; provided continuous technical support; verified the collected information with local authorities; and ensured adherence to the agreed methodology.
The activity successfully established a comprehensive baseline on the status and functionality of Water and Natural Resource Management Committees. The findings provide a solid foundation for designing targeted capacity-building interventions including training, mentoring ongoing technical support to enhance the effectiveness, accountability, and sustainability of the committees. Ultimately, these efforts would contribute to improved community resilience, strengthened local governance, and sustainable management of water and natural resources.