Governance and Institutional
Strengthening in the Lake Chad Basin
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Governance and Institutional Strengthening in the Lake Chad Basin
Building Resilience Through Regional Cooperation and Capacity Development
The Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC) stands as a beacon of regional cooperation, entrusted with the stewardship of one of Africa’s most vital transboundary ecosystems. As the region faces mounting challenges—from climate change and environmental degradation to insecurity and humanitarian crises—governance and institutional strengthening have emerged as central pillars in LCBC’s mission to ensure sustainable development, peace, and resilience.
The Governors’ Forum for Regional Cooperation, convened annually, exemplifies LCBC’s commitment to decentralization and local leadership in implementing regional strategies.
A Vision for Inclusive and Effective
Governance
LCBC’s governance framework is rooted in its Vision 2025 and reinforced by strategic instruments such as the Water Charter (2012), the Strategic Action Programme (SAP 2023–2037), and the Regional Strategy for Stabilization, Recovery, and Resilience (RS SRR 2025–2030). These frameworks promote:
Institutional Capacity Building: A Strategic Imperative
LCBC has undertaken comprehensive reforms to enhance its institutional effectiveness. Supported by partners such as GIZ, AfDB, UNDP, and the EU, key initiatives include:
- Organizational restructuring and modernization of internal systems.
- Development of the Lake Chad Information System (LIS) for data-driven decision-making.
- Training and capacity development for LCBC staff and Member State focal points.
- Establishment of Monitoring and Evaluation Units to track progress and
These efforts aim to transform LCBC into a regional knowledge hub and service provider for sustainable water and environmental governance.
Strategic Action Areas for
Governance Strengthening
Operationalizing the Water Charter
- Translation and dissemination of Charter provisions.
- Alignment of national legal frameworks with regional standards.
- Pilot implementation of principles like “Polluter Pays” and “Abstractor Pays”.
Enhancing Regional
Coordination & Dialogue
- Multi-stakeholder platforms for disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation.
- Joint planning and imple-mentation of transboundary projects.
- Strengthening hydro-diplomacy & conflict resolution mech-anisms.
Promoting Gender-Inclusive Governance
- Mainstreaming gender in policy and project design.
- Supporting women-led initiatives in natural resource management.
- Ensuring representation in decision-making bodies.
Building Local and National Capacities
- Technical assistance to Member States.
- Support for regional deve-lopment plans and land use strategies.
- Knowledge sharing and peer learning across borders.
Achievements and Innovations
Simplified Practical Guide to the Water Charter
Empowering local communities
to engage with governance
frameworks.
Regional DRR/CCA Strategy
Institutionalizing disaster risk
governance and climate
resilience.
Digital transformation
Upgrading LCBC’s IT infrastructure and internal communication systems.
Strategic partnership
Enhanced collaboration with AU, UNDP, IUCN, and regional economic communities.
Looking Ahead
Governance and institutional strengthening are not just administrative functions—they are the foundation for resilience, equity, and sustainability in the Lake Chad Basin. LCBC’s ongoing reforms and strategic partnerships are paving the way for a future where regional cooperation thrives, communities are empowered, and natural resources are safeguarded for generations to come.
Through inclusive governance, robust institutions, and visionary leadership, LCBC is transforming challenges into opportunities—ensuring that the Lake Chad Basin remains a source of life, peace, and prosperity.
