The Lake Victoria Basin Commission (LVBC), operational since 2009, is an institution of the East African Community (EAC). Its mandate is to promote sustainable development, environmental conservation, and resource management in the Lake Victoria Basin, shared by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. The LVBC works to address challenges like environmental degradation, water management, and socio-economic development. It coordinates projects and initiatives that enhance cooperation among the member states, focusing on the integrated management of the basin’s resources. The Commission plays a critical role in fostering regional collaboration for the benefit of the basin’s communities.
Functions
- Promote Sustainable Development: Coordinate sustainable development initiatives in the Lake Victoria Basin to improve livelihoods and environmental health.
- Environmental Conservation: Develop and implement programs for the conservation of the basin’s ecosystems, including water quality management and biodiversity protection.
- Resource Management: Oversee the integrated management and equitable utilization of the basin’s natural resources, including water, land, and fisheries.
- Regional Cooperation: Facilitate cooperation among the three partner states (Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania) for the effective management of the basin’s resources.
- Research and Data Collection: Support research and data collection on the basin’s environment, hydrology, and socio-economic activities to inform decision-making.
- Capacity Building: Strengthen institutional capacity and build the skills of stakeholders involved in managing and protecting the Lake Victoria Basin.
- Policy Development: Assist in the formulation of policies and strategies that promote the sustainable use of resources within the basin.
- Community Engagement: Engage local communities in decision-making and the implementation of development projects to enhance ownership and sustainability.
- Disaster Risk Management: Implement programs to mitigate the impact of natural disasters such as floods, droughts, and soil erosion in the basin.
- Facilitate Investment: Promote investments in infrastructure, industries, and services that enhance the socio-economic development of the Lake Victoria Basin region.
Important Links
Address & Contacts
- Lake Victoria Basin Commission, Off Kenyatta Highway, New Nyanza Regional Headquarters, 13Th Floor,
- P.O BOX 1510-40100, Kisumu, Kenya
- lvbc@lvbcom.org
- +254 57 202 6344| +254 57 202 3873|+254 57 202 3894