A Regional Executive Board Elected for the Volta Basin Users’ Coordination

The regional workshop dedicated to establishing the Regional Coordination of Users of the Volta Basin (RCU-VB) concluded on a historic note: the election and installation of the Regional Executive Board, marking a decisive step toward participatory governance of shared natural resources.

An Inclusive and Transparent Process

Organized by the Volta Basin Authority (VBA) and the Global Water Partnership West Africa (GWP-WA), with support from UNEP, IUCN, and the GEF, the workshop brought together 35 participants from the six basin countries. Over two days, delegates validated the statutes and internal regulations of CRU-BV, adopted a three-year action plan, and defined mechanisms for financing and institutional recognition.

A Regional Board Elected for 3 Years

The highlight of the meeting was the election of the Regional Executive Board, composed of thirteen (13) representatives from all six countries. Mr. Etienne BELLO (Mali) was elected Chair for a three-year, non-renewable term, in line with RCU-VB’s principles of democratic rotation and inclusion. The Board’s mission:

  • Ensure cross-border coordination of users.
  • Implement the adopted action plan.
  • Represent communities in VBA decision-making bodies.

Concrete Outcomes

  • Statutes and internal regulations adopted.
  • Capacity-building plan and action plan validated.
  • Regional Executive Board installed and recognized by VBA.

RCU-VB is now a key player in influencing regional policies on water, land, forests, and livelihoods. Its mandate: amplify community voices and promote sustainable, inclusive governance.

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