The Kagera Basin Organization (KBO) is an intergovernmental organization established in 1977 to promote sustainable development and management of the Kagera River Basin. The Kagera River Basin is located in East Africa and covers parts of Burundi, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda.
The main objective of the KBO is to facilitate cooperation among the riparian countries in the basin to address common challenges related to water resources management, environmental conservation, and socio-economic development. The organization aims to promote integrated water resources management, enhance water security, and improve livelihoods in the basin.
The KBO works through a collaborative approach, bringing together government agencies, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to develop and implement joint programs and projects. It focuses on various areas such as water allocation and use, water quality management, flood and drought management, ecosystem conservation, and climate change adaptation.
The organization also plays a crucial role in data collection, monitoring, and research to support evidence-based decision-making in the basin. It facilitates the sharing of information and knowledge among the riparian countries, promotes capacity building, and provides technical assistance to strengthen the institutional and technical capacities of its member countries.
Overall, the Kagera Basin Organization plays a vital role in promoting sustainable development and cooperation among the riparian countries in the Kagera River Basin, ensuring the equitable and efficient use of water resources while preserving the basin's ecosystems.