[02 Jan,2026 WLRC] WLRC in collaboration with the Ministry of Water and Energy, as part of the BRIGHT Project’s Water Use Management (WUM) quick-win interventions, facilitated the establishment of Irrigation Water Users Associations (IWUAs) of the Shara (Emba–Muja) and Chano (Chalba–Mille) irrigation schemes users in the Lower Hare Catchment. The IWUA establishment General Assembly meetings held 30–31 December 2025, brought together water users from four kebeles: Shara Emba, Shara Muja, Chano Chalba, and Chano Mille.
The IWUAs fully participatory, transparent, and inclusive meetings led to free and fair elections of IWUA leaders in full compliance with the relevant legal and regulatory frameworks. The strong participation of water users reflects growing ownership of irrigation management and enhanced cooperation.
Following their legal establishment, entry-level training was provided to members of the newly formed IWUAs to build a shared understanding of their roles and responsibilities. The training covered familiarisation with the IWUA organizational proclamation and bylaws, the functions of various sub-committees, the roles of committee members, and key aspects of irrigation scheme operation and maintenance. This initial capacity-building support is intended to lay a solid foundation for effective governance and sustainable management of the irrigation schemes. The IWUAs formation and training were supported by the BRIGHT Project, which is financed by EKN and the EU.