Partnerships

IWMI fosters partnerships that prioritize social and gender equity, climate resilience, and conflict mitigation, including for marginalized communities. By working closely with governments, civil society, user groups, national research institutes and the private sector, IWMI develops sustainable solutions for water and land management that are tailored to local needs.

Collaborative approach

IWMI’s success hinges on its extensive network of partnerships. By collaborating with over 400 stakeholders — including governments, farmers, water managers, development organizations, and the private sector — IWMI fosters a multi-stakeholder approach that enhances knowledge sharing and collective action. This collaborative framework allows IWMI to leverage diverse expertise and local insights, ensuring that solutions are contextually relevant and effective.

New strategy on collective action for water security

IWMI has launched a new strategy for 2024–2030 that emphasizes collective action as a cornerstone for enhancing water security. This strategic framework focuses on three key areas: mitigating water risks, overcoming global inequalities, and managing water sustainably. By harnessing the power of partnerships, IWMI aims to develop adaptive and robust solutions that have lasting impacts on water management challenges. Under the motto “Driving Action. Propelling Change,” the strategy promotes interdisciplinary and systems-oriented research, encouraging collaboration among scientists, policymakers, and community stakeholders to effectively address complex water issues.

Evidence-based solutions through partnerships

Through joint efforts, IWMI combines rigorous research, innovative technologies, and practical experience to tackle complex water management issues. Our teams engage local project partners, including community organizations and extension officers, to conduct rapid training needs assessments and develop tailored training modules. This collaborative engagement not only strengthens local capacities but also increases participation and uptake of water management solutions.

Driving development from the ground up

IWMI’s partnerships extend across Africa and Asia, where a sustained field presence enables the Institute to work closely with local stakeholders. By providing the latest data, analysis, and tools directly to these partners, IWMI empowers communities to address critical water management challenges effectively. This approach ensures that solutions are not only scientifically sound but also socially equitable and sustainable.

Partnerships in action

The Transformative Futures for Water Security Initiative (TFWS) serves as a vital mechanism for IWMI to build partnerships across diverse sectors, including policy, business, development, and science. By fostering inclusive dialogues and collaborations, TFWS aims to bridge the gaps between science and policy, ensuring that water-related challenges are addressed through collective action and innovative solutions. This initiative emphasizes the importance of engaging a broad range of stakeholders, including youth, to co-create strategies that enhance water security and resilience.

Partner with us

For more information about IWMI’s work and opportunities for collaboration, please contact us.

Juliana Knapp

Juliana Knapp

Senior Manager – Resource Mobilization and Partnerships

Latest news about partnerships

IWMI signs agreements with key partners in West Africa to advance regional water security  

Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with ECOWAS and Sierra Leone’s water agency signal regional commitment to science-driven water governance …

IWMI signs MoU with Department of Water Resources of Lao PDR to enhance water resource management

The agreement will enhance research cooperation, water security and sustainable water resources management in the country and the region …

IWMI gender researchers are helping to shape “transformative agendas” in the CGIAR Science Programs

Contributions at the CGIAR Gender Science Exchange emphasized the importance of social and environmental justice …

Partnerships the main driver at Cairo Water Week 2024

IWMI achieved a number of important milestones and showcased innovations for sustainable water management …