Using “Water Evaluation and Planning” (WEAP) Model to Simulate Water Demand in Lobo Watershed (Central-Western Cote d’Ivoire)

Abstract

Climate change continues to pose a threat to the sustainability of water resources while, water need is increasing. In spite of the efforts made by the state authorities to build water infrastructure, a large majority of the population is not having access to drinking water. In this study, Water Evaluation and Planning (WEAP) model was used to model the current situation of water supply and demands, to create scenarios for future water demands and supply. The results show that, in contrast to the livestock sector, which has a zero DNS, huge deficits are observed in reference scenario. These unsatisfied demands (DNS) are dominated by deficits in rice irrigation. The analysis of the evolution of demand according to the growth scenarios has shown that the deficits already observed in the reference scenario will reach 100.45 × 106 m3 in 2040. To mitigate the effects of such deficits, water management optimization measures have been proposed. Strengthening the water supply to urban centers from the creation of dams could considerably reduce the observed deficits. These results are an important decision support tool for sustainable water resource management in the Lobo watershed. However, these strategies to improve access to water depend on the government’s political will on water and economic opportunities.