Advancing Locally Led Water Management in Ethiopia, Kenya, Egypt and Jordan

Despite significant progress over the past decade, structural inequities and unsustainable practices continue to shape how water resources are governed and managed. Climate change is intensifying these challenges, disproportionately affecting vulnerable communities and ecosystems, while fragmented and often externally driven knowledge systems limit locally grounded solutions.

Water and Development Partnership Programme (WDPP3), commissioned by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, responds to this by fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and shifting leadership towards organisations in low- and middle-income countries. Through over 55 projects, the programme brings together research, education, and capacity strengthening to promote inclusive and climate resilient water management.

PEM conducted the Mid Term Review of the WDPP3 programme in early 2026, covering the period from August 2021 to December 2025. Our review—supported by field missions in Ethiopia, Kenya, Egypt, and Jordan—highlighted the value of locally led partnerships, joint learning, and integrating diverse knowledge systems. These approaches are essential for addressing complex water challenges and ensuring long-term impact.

Read the review here: Mid-Term Review of the Water and Development Partnership Programme – phase 3 (WDPP3) | Government.nl