This landmark initiative brings together a diverse range of stakeholders, including public sector representatives, private businesses, civil society organizations, and development partners, all united in their efforts to address the country's critical water security issues.
The launch of the MSP is a significant milestone in the implementation of the Prime Minister Order N°031/03 of November 30, 2022, which governs the National Water Consultative Committee (NWCC).
The NWCC is made up of two main bodies: a high-level Policy Consultative Committee and the MSP, which focuses on technical coordination, strategic planning, and fostering collaborative action to address Rwanda's growing water resource challenges.
The MSP is designed to support Rwanda in achieving water security for economic growth and sustainable development. One of its key objectives is to facilitate dialogue among stakeholders from different sectors to co-design solutions for pressing water-related challenges.
Additionally, it aims to enhance coordination across public, private, and civil society sectors, ensuring a holistic and unified approach to managing the country's water resources. The MSP also seeks to pilot innovative interventions, such as the Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) initiative, which will reward communities for conserving ecosystems that help manage water resources.
The operationalization of the MSP has been supported by the 2030 Water Resources Group (2030 WRG), a global initiative hosted by the World Bank Group. The launch event also marked the signing of a historic partnership framework between the Rwanda Water Resources Board, Rwanda Mountain Tea Ltd, ARCOS Network, and IUCN for a PES pilot project at the Giciye Catchment.
Speaking at the launch, Beatrice Cyiza, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, expressed her optimism about the MSP's role in advancing Rwanda's water security efforts.
"The launch of this platform marks a new chapter in Rwanda's commitment to water security and sustainability. By bringing together diverse stakeholders, we are building a foundation for collaboration, innovation, and practical solutions to our water challenges. This is a collective victory for Rwanda's development agenda," she said.
Dr. Emmanuel Rukundo, Director General of the Rwanda Water Resources Board (RWB), highlighted the transformative potential of partnerships in addressing water challenges.
"Through initiatives like the Payment for Ecosystem Services pilot, we are not only addressing water security but also creating economic and environmental benefits for communities. This partnership framework is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together," he said.
With increasing pressure on water resources from population growth, urbanization, and climate change, Rwanda's approach to water security is critical for its sustainable development. The MSP offers a collaborative space for stakeholders to address the complex challenges surrounding water management through shared knowledge and joint action.
The platform will bring together a broad range of key institutions, with the Rwanda Water Resources Board (RWB) serving as the chair of the MSP.
Other participating entities include WASAC Group, the Rwanda Energy Group (REG), the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA), and the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB).
Additional stakeholders include the Rwanda Transport Development Authority (RTDA), the Rwanda Housing Authority (RHA), the National Land Authority (NLA), and the Rwanda Meteorology Agency (RMA).
The platform also brings in critical private sector partners, such as the CEO of the Private Sector Federation (PSF), as well as civil society representatives, including the Executive Secretary of the Forum of Non-Governmental Organizations on Environment (RENGONF).
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