Organization for the development of the Senegal river basin (OMVS) and integrated water ressources management (IWRM) : what benefits and difficulties of the OMVS for IWRM in Senegal ?
Abstract
This article describes how the role of integrated approach to water resources
management (IWRM) for the use of water resources socially equitable, economically
efficient and environmentally sustainable and provision of water services is linked
to, and can be used as a tool to fight against poverty in Senegal. This present
paper is concerned with the consequences of adoption of an IWRM approach
to reducing poverty in Senegal, and demonstrates links between the concept
of IWRM and poverty. The methodology adopted in this study is based on the
collection of data and information from available sources and statistics (organisms
and Internet). The results show that Senegal, country located at the extreme
west of African continent has many constraints of political, social, economic and
environmental hampering the good management of available water resources.
These constraints focus on the sectorial approach of water management, the
immobility of actors of this management, overlapping responsibilities, lack of
financial mains, inescapable scarcity, the constant degradation and the unequal
distribution of water. Consequences are dramatic and contribute significantly to
the impoverishment of population. Unlike the fragmented water management
which has negative impacts on the lives of poor, IWRM approach is an important
strategy for reducing poverty. Although poverty reduction is a complex issue
requiring targeted actions and specific strategies, water is a major component,
and many aspects of IWRM approach are relevant to poverty reduction by
maximizing welfare economic and social being.
Key words
Management, Water resources, Basin organization, Arrangements, Senegal River
Basin