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The creation of the Amazon Network of Water Authorities (RADA by its acronym in Spanish) by the presidents of the Amazonian countries during the 2023 Amazon Summit represents a significant step forward in transboundary water governance. RADA was established within the framework of the Amazon Cooperation Treaty Organization (ACTO), an intergovernmental body formed by the eight Amazonian countries.
Officially installed in April 2024, RADA provides a permanent coordination platform for water authorities from Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru, Suriname, and Venezuela. Its 2024 – 2026 work plan includes:
- the approval of regional protocols for water quantity and quality monitoring and data exchange,
- training and capacity building,
- exchange of experiences in financing IWRM,
- strengthening the regional coordination mechanism.
One key priority is enhancing the Amazon Hydrological Network and the Water Quality Network, two regional monitoring networks that support the Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) in the basin.
RADA operates with the support of the Amazon Basin Project, led by ACTO in partnership with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF). The project supports the implementation of the Strategic Action Program (SAP) for Integrated Water Resources Management in the Amazon Basin, reinforcing institutional capacities for IWRM, building community and ecosystems resilience to climate change, and ensuring regional data for decision making processes.
With the creation of RADA, the 8 Amazonian countries reaffirm their commitment to building transboundary water governance, protecting one of the planet’s most vital ecosystems.