[WLRC September 2025] The Water and Land Resource Centre (WLRC), in collaboration with the Ministry of Water and Energy (MoWE), organized a high-level side event during the Second African Climate Summit, held at the International Convention Centre in Addis Ababa from 8–10 September 2025.
The side event, titled “Integrated Approach in Action: Lessons from the Kunzila Project on Synergizing Climate Resilience, Livelihoods, and Sustainability,” showcased a proven, holistic model that strengthens resilience to climate risks while delivering actionable and scalable solutions for Africa. Lessons from the Kunzila Integrated Landscape Management and WASH (ILMWA) project, implemented in North Gojjam, were highlighted as a practical example of how coordinated integrated interventions can drive sustainable change at both community and landscape levels.
Her Excellency Mrs. Christine Pirenne, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Ethiopia, in her opening address reaffirmed the Dutch government’s strong commitment to supporting local development initiatives that generate tangible results in the fight against climate change. She emphasized that projects like Kunzila, which combine research, practice, and community engagement, demonstrate how international cooperation can accelerate climate adaptation while improving livelihoods.
The Kunzila ILMWA Project Manager, Dr. Fekadu Gelaw, delivered a presentation on “Synergy in Action: Unlocking Climate Resilience through Integrated Landscape Management.” He outlined the project’s key achievements in restoring degraded landscapes, improving water management, and diversifying local livelihoods. Dr. Fekadu noted that the project not only enhances food and water security but also strengthens the resilience of vulnerable communities to climate shocks.
A panel discussion followed, featuring experts from MoWE, WLRC, and SNV, who exchanged perspectives on best practices, challenges, and opportunities for scaling up integrated landscape management. The discussion underscored the need for stronger cross-sectoral collaboration, investment in research-based solutions, and community-driven approaches to ensure sustainability. The Panelists were Mr. Debebe Deferso, LEO for Water Management, MoWE; Mrs. Yetnayet Girma; and Dr. Mamaru Ayalew, BRIGHT Project manager at WLRC.
WLRC Deputy Director General Dr. Tena Alamirew in his closing remarks, highlighted the critical importance of the integrated approach in development planning. He emphasized WLRC’s hybrid Research-for-Development (R4D) model, which blends rigorous scientific research with practical implementation in the field. Dr. Tena stressed that the pilot–learn–scale methodology adopted by WLRC has already delivered measurable impacts, equipping communities with tools and knowledge to mitigate climate risks while improving their quality of life.
The side event concluded with a strong message: Africa’s future resilience lies in integrated, inclusive, and evidence-based approaches that bring together governments, research institutions, international partners, and local communities. The Kunzila project was presented as a model that can inspire similar initiatives across the continent.