Integrated water management

Programme description

Title: Integrated water management
Commissioned by: German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ)
Country: Algeria
Lead executing agency: Ministère des Ressources en Eau
Overall term: 2003 to 2011

Context

Algeria’s water sector faces numerous problems in managing its water resources. While the quantities of conventional water resources are sufficient in terms of the overall land area, their availability fluctuates depending on the year and region. The demand for water, which is generally on the rise, is being exacerbated by high population growth and the rural-urban migration. It cannot be satisfied, not least because of the deficiencies in water management. The water sector’s heavily centralised institutions are working primarily to mobilise additional resources, such as seawater desalination, fossil groundwater and others. On the other hand, the option of influencing consumption, the processing and reuse of wastewater, and the conservation of groundwater and the environment have so far been given lower priority. The competent institutions have not steered water management in an integrated and efficient manner, despite the existence of modern legislation and sector reform. Inadequate expertise at various levels is a core problems.

Objective

Water sector institutions, the Ministry of Water and regional authorities have better skills to deliver integrated water management services.

Approach

The Integrated Water Management – Algeria programme offers advice on sector policy and strategy and is support ing the creation and implementation of planning and regulation processes. It is also encouraging the introduction of an integrated and participatory water resources management model tailored to rural areas. The support consists of process and technical advice from international, regional and local experts, and also includes material contributions and training measures.

Results achieved so far

The Algerian Water Ministry and its institutions have begun using an integrated planning system for the first time. It comprises a handbook for the planning of construction and investment projects, an information system for planning investments in the water sector, and instruments for devising regional water framework plans. Water catchment authorities have already drawn up four of five framework plans using a standardised planning methodology. The transparency and quality of national sector planning has thus improved.

A regulatory handbook elaborated for the Algerian water sector serves as the basis for the creation and organisation of the new regulatory authority.

An integrated water management model for rural areas is being used in the Beni Abbès oasis. The rehabilitation of the irrigation system and drinking and wastewater networks have reduced water loss and pollution. The population is much more aware of ways to save water in their homes and gardens thanks to participatory approaches.