Global Map

Adapt engagement approach depending on unique stakeholder needs and interests (Lesson learned)

Different types of partners and stakeholders need different forms of engagement. Partners differ in their level of involvement – are they a core partner, a secondary partner, or a benefactor? Partner type also affects engagement strategies, whether the partner belongs … Learn More

Clearly define roles and responsibilities for all partners (Lesson learned)

Clearly define roles for each member of the partnership to ensure stakeholders and partners do not get confused regarding the partnership process. Roles are best defined through both verbal confirmation during stakeholder workshops and the written partnership memorandum of understanding. Learn More

Ensure high-level engagement with the public sector to unlock opportunities (Lesson learned)

High-level engagement with policy makers and government officials is necessary to ensure the partnership activities are aligned with public mandates, particularly the public sector mandate for water security. Learn More

Ensure in-depth and impactful consultation with key decision-making partners (Lesson learned)

In-depth and considered consultation with key stakeholders will lead to a better partnership and meaningful solutions to local water challenges. Focused consultations with stakeholders and prospective partners can help identify the main local water challenges that impact them and validate … Learn More

Promote greater buy-in through water resources management education (Lesson learned)

Many stakeholders will need education on water resources management and stewardship, especially those not exposed to such concepts before. This training and awareness-raising helps stakeholders engage with water sustainability to enact long-term, comprehensive solutions. Learn More

Provide partner capacity-building to create partnership sustainability (Lesson learned)

Developing partner capacity through education ensures partnerships are formed on an equal and sustainable footing. Training is a way to build partners’ capacity and understanding so that all partners can engage equally to address the water challenges that most affect … Learn More

Set partnership objectives that are measurable (Lesson learned)

Partnerships should set objectives that are transparent, objectively measurable, and can be tracked over time. Setting measurable goals helps to create and sustain momentum throughout the partnership by allowing partners to demonstrate progress while holding stakeholders accountable. Through good monitoring … Learn More

Avoid partners dependency in initiative design (Lesson learned)

Partner dependency causes the outcome of a partnership to rest on a single institution, threatening the long-term sustainability of the initiative. Programmes should be designed from a systemic perspective that includes multiple strategic partners. At a practical design level, the … Learn More

Develop social skills and capacity to complement technical interventions (Lesson learned)

Water stewardship goes beyond technical interventions. Stewardship partners must consider the capacity building of other skills including social, or “soft,” skills, especially in the context of complex water challenges. Soft skills include communication, partnership brokering, negotiation, and facilitation. These soft … Learn More

A strong partnership based on trust is important for project implementation (Lesson learned)

A strong partnership based on trust is important for project implementation and sustained success. Fostering local ownership and support for the partnership creates trust amongst project proponents and beneficiaries. A resilient, trust-based partnership can better address any challenges that arise … Learn More