International workshop traditional water management : citizen and local know-how : Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, April 2 - 7, 1995 = Atelier international la gestion traditionelle de l'eau : citoyen et savoir-faire local : rapport = Taller internacional man

The three prime objectives of this Workshop were: i. to discuss the conditions characterizing traditional water management (TWM) systems within a variety of ecological and social systems; ii. to discuss and evaluate the research and intervention methods used in the field; and iii. to establish parameters for a framework for local action to maintain and strengthen TWM systems and to establish cooperation between local actors, governments, and development agencies. The challenge of this TWM programme is to bring together local know-how and modern practices and knowledge in an appropriate manner. From an analysis of case studies, a discussion guide was set up to focus on four themes: understanding TWM systems and local know-how, interaction between development intervenors and TWM system actors, definition of the institutional framework, and transmission of local know-how and training of local intervenors (role of development agencies). From these discussions a series of actions was agreed upon. In approaching the local people, it was felt that through self-promotion, recognition of local institutions and decision-making authorities in interventions, and a recognition of TWM systems, the participation of the local people in all intervention phases could be encouraged. In order to bolster and improve TWM systems an emphasis should be placed on local training and education about these systems. The collection of data and dissemination of publications about TWM should be fostered to facilitate the revaluation of TWM systems and to promote the TWM approach to national and international institutions.