Message 45: Ango Patrice Effebi

Ango Patrice Effebi response highlights that the role of women as water users and providers is not seen in institutions that deal with water management and development. There is thus a gap between the users and the representatives.

What is needed?

Water is a basic human need and a basic human right. In situations of scarcity, decisions about access to water and use of water involve actors at the intergovernmental, governmental, regional, community and household levels and often become highly politicized. The needs and perspectives of large and small scale farmers, of small and medium sized enterprises, of households, of fisher folk and of others who earn their livelihood from water can differ significantly. At the same time, level of commitment of the different actors to conservation practices and to protection of water resources from contamination may also vary and the question of whose interests prevail and receive top priority can create considerable tension. The most vulnerable members of societies . the landless and the poor . often have no voice in decision-making about water and their needs may be given little priority.

This pivotal role of women as providers and users of water and guardians of the living environment has seldom been reflected in institutional arrangements for the development and management of water resources. Acceptance and implementation of this principle requires positive policies to address women.s specific needs and to equip and empower women to participate at all levels in water resources programmes, including decision-making and implementation, in ways defined by them.

ANGO Patrice EFFEBI

Consultant

Abidjan

Ivory Coast - West africa