In several countries along the West African coast, growing pressure on water resources, combined with the effects of climate change, demographic trends and institutional weaknesses, can exacerbate tensions between water users and undermine the resilience of certain regions. Against this backdrop, USAID has launched a study aimed at analysing the links between water resource availability, governance mechanisms in the sector and conflict dynamics in the areas concerned.

This research has identified risk factors, resilience mechanisms and opportunities for intervention to guide the design of future development and stabilisation programmes in the region.

Type of services provided

• Conducting a literature and sectoral review on water resources, their governance and conflict dynamics.

• Analysing hydrological, hydrogeological and institutional data at regional level.
• Conducting interviews with institutional, technical and community stakeholders.
• Collecting field data through focus group discussions in the study areas.
• Organisation and facilitation of consultation workshops and sessions to present findings.
• Identification of risk factors and drivers of resilience related to water management.
• Preparation of a strategic brief to guide USAID’s future programming and investments.