For more than 20 years of operation, GWPEA has made significant progress in advancing water security and climate resilience in Eastern Africa, while recognising that sustained effort is still required. Key achievements include:
- Strengthening political will to integrate IWRM into national policies, strategies, and planning processes across the eight Country Water Partnerships;
- Increasing national ownership of GWPEA programmes, including the Water and Climate Change Development Programme and other regional initiatives;
- Catalysing shifts in mindset, particularly among local communities, by increasing awareness and understanding of water catchment protection and ecosystem management;
- Promoting research-based advocacy, especially in the areas of climate change adaptation, water security, and resilience;
- Contributing to improved national policies and strategies through high-level policy dialogues, strategic communication, and systematic sharing of best practices.
Across Eastern Africa, water is increasingly recognised as a critical resource for sustainable development. Decision-makers are progressively acknowledging the interlinkages between climate change, water security, food security, and energy security, and are mobilising efforts and resources to address both current and future needs.