This Solutionscape focuses on the Gambella Wetland in northern Kenya, located between the water-rich highlands of Mount Kenya and the arid lowlands. Traditionally, the wetland served as a vital source of water, particularly during the dry season, when it provided grazing ground for pastoralists’ livestock as well as wildlife, including large elephant herds. For a long time, farmers have also depended on water from the spring and river flowing from the wetland. In recent years, land use has changed significantly. The growth of small-scale farming has come with an increase in the cultivation of cash crops like tomato and onion, relying heavily on groundwater for irrigation. Water extraction has reduced reservoir capacity, affected the ecosystem, and diminished the overall availability of water for various stakeholders. Wildlife and pastoralists, who travel long distances to this region in search of water during the dry season and droughts, are the most vulnerable to these changes.

To address these growing challenges and secure water in the wetland, the Wyss Academy has brought together diverse stakeholders, forming a Coalition for Change and a Wetland Management Committee, a community-based initiative, and a sub-committee of Water Resource Users Association. These forming a crucial basis for sustainable governance of the wetland area and its water resources. Current projects focus on further strengthening local and regional governance of water resources, supporting wetland regeneration and vegetation restoration, and providing access to water for wildlife, livestock, and households—while ensuring that fragile wetland vegetation under restoration remains protected. Additionally, efforts are being made to diversify local livelihoods, particularly through non-livestock-based, high-value products. The aim is to increase income while protecting nature.