Water data science

IWMI strengthens water security through innovative data analysis and application, as well as novel digital tools. To address critical information gaps, IWMI collects and analyzes data using technologies like remote sensing and compiles fragmented datasets from various public and private sources. This comprehensive approach equips researchers, policymakers, and communities with the data and information they need to make informed decisions and manage water resources effectively.

Our research in action

To improve access and analysis, IWMI makes its data publicly available through Open Access platforms and offers user-friendly digital dashboards that integrate real-time monitoring and practical insights. These platforms empower experts to address water- and climate-related challenges, and engage citizens in water management and climate adaptation activities. Custom tools enable communities to track water quality, predict floods, and prepare for droughts. IWMI also enhances capacity at local, national, and regional levels.

IWMI’s science-based tools support diverse applications such as water accounting, irrigation management, and climate impact and adaptation assessments. These data-driven solutions include forecasts to anticipate future conditions, scenario analyses to explore potential outcomes, and impact assessments that evaluate policy effects on water, food, and land systems. This ensures that stakeholders have access to the right data for both immediate needs and long-term planning.

Artificial intelligence (AI) further amplifies the effectiveness of IWMI’s data tools, with machine learning models assisting in real-time monitoring and precise water resource mapping. By incorporating AI technologies within frameworks that prioritize gender equity and social inclusion, IWMI ensures that digital tools support equitable participation and inclusive water management for all communities.

Contact

Ian Overton

Ian Overton

Acting Director – Water Data Science / Country Manager – Sri Lanka

Latest news

Digital tools to address data gaps facing Ethiopian farmers

Data experts in Ethiopia explore how digital tools can improve data sharing and thus farmers’ access to critical water, climate and soil data …

IRRILINE: How does Farmerline support me in making decisions on irrigation?

Irrigation engineers at Farmerline assist Ghanaian farmers with making the right choices for their irrigation investments …

IWMI and World Meteorological Organization partner to strengthen climate resilience through data, innovation and early action

The partnership will integrate climate data with water management solutions to help vulnerable communities in Africa and Asia anticipate and respond to extreme weather events …

What turns everyday people into water scientists in the Limpopo River Basin? 

60 citizen scientists in Southern Africa told us about making water monitoring accessible, rewarding and sustainable …

Projects

Latest publications

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Journal Article

Solar irrigation for adapting to climate change in cocoa farming: a choice experiment approach identifying Ghanaian farmers’ preferences

Elsevier | March, 2026
Gbodji, Kekeli Kofi; Quarmine, William; Buisson, Marie-Charlotte; Mitra, Archisman; Schmitter, Petra
Open Access
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Journal Article

Nutrient dynamics and recovery efficiencies in a decentralised faecal sludge and food waste treatment system

Elsevier | March, 2026
Nartey, Eric Gbenatey; Sakrabani, R.; Tyrrel, S.; Dapaah, E.; Adamtey, Noah
Open Access
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Report

Gender equality and social inclusion in focus: key insights from Solar Irrigation for Agricultural Resilience (SoLAR)

International Water Management Institute | January 26th, 2026
Agarwal, Tripti; Ravindranath, Darshini
Open Access