The Ivoirian government, through the Director of Water Resource Protection and Development, Dr. Kouassi Kouamé Auguste, recently conducted a workshop in Sakassou to educate locals on integrated water resource management (IWRM) for the Loka river basin. The event took place from October 1-2, 2026, at the prefecture. Dr. Kouassi Kouamé Auguste emphasized that IWRM aims to address challenges and conflicts related to water usage while preserving ecosystems.
The Loka river basin IWRM project covers 12 sub-prefectures in the Gbêkê region and involves two significant water reservoirs: Lake Kossou, which supplies electricity, and a hydraulic dam providing potable water to local populations. Dr. Kouassi Kouamé Auguste highlighted the project's importance, noting that it seeks to ensure equitable access to water for domestic, agricultural, pastoral, and sanitary needs.
The workshop brought together various stakeholders, including the representative of the International Water Office (IWO), Mélanie Payet, and sub-prefects from concerned localities. Participants discussed ways to prevent water waste and pollution, as well as involve users, authorities, and populations in water management to prevent usage conflicts.
The IWRM approach encourages coordinated management of water resources to balance economic and social needs. According to Dr. Kouassi Kouamé Auguste, this strategy will help mitigate conflicts and ensure sustainable use of water resources in the Loka river basin.
Prefect of Sakassou, Bonaventure Tiégbé, commended the government's efforts in the water sector, particularly the enactment of the Water Code law, which serves as a reference instrument for water resource management and valorization. He praised Dr. Kouassi Kouamé Auguste and his team for sensitizing populations to the importance of local and participatory management of water resources.
The workshop's outcome is expected to enhance cooperation among stakeholders and promote effective management of water resources in the Loka river basin. By engaging local populations and authorities, the Ivoirian government aims to ensure sustainable and equitable access to water resources.
The successful implementation of the Loka river basin IWRM project may serve as a model for other regions in Côte d'Ivoire, contributing to improved water resource management nationwide. Key stakeholders will continue to collaborate to address water-related challenges and promote sustainable development.
Key points
- The Ivoirian government has initiated an integrated water resource management project for the Loka river basin, covering 12 sub-prefectures in the Gbêkê region.
- The project aims to ensure equitable access to water for domestic, agricultural, pastoral, and sanitary needs while preventing water waste and pollution.
- The initiative involves collaboration among various stakeholders, including local populations, authorities, and international organizations.
