Making governance work for water–energy–food nexus approaches
This working paper (PDF) from the Climate & Development Knowledge Network (CDKN) elaborates on the importance and challenges regarding governance for water-energy-food nexus approaches. The concept of the water–energy–food (WEF) nexus has become widely used to help understand interdependencies among the three systems, and how they can be managed sustainably to meet growing demand. However, governance in the WEF nexus has not received much attention in the literature, particularly the institutions and politics governing the WEF sectors. This paper synthesises findings from CDKN-supported research that has sought to improve understanding of how governance affects the effectiveness of nexus approaches – that is, approaches that understand the links between sectors, recognize these in decision-making and promote integrated policy-making. The paper draws from findings in Indonesia and Kenya to show that the effectiveness of the horizontal (cross-sectoral) and vertical (between levels of government) coordination that is essential for a nexus approach is determined by institutional relationships, which can be influenced by political economy factors. The capacity of governing organisations to understand nexus links and to collaborate with each other is also critical. The paper suggests that aiming for the ideal of comprehensiveness and integration in a nexus approach may be costly and impractical. Nevertheless, horizontal and vertical coordination are essential. Local-level decision-making will determine how trade-offs and synergies in the WEF nexus are implemented. The capacities of local government organisations and decision-makers need to be strengthened to enhance their capacity to adopt nexus approaches and coordinate vertically.