WRRC Residency Enriched My Transboundary Water Knowledge
Sharon B. Megdal and Anna Msigwa
Guest Author: Anna Msigwa, Lecturer and Researcher in Hydrology and Water Resources Engineering, The Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology
In 2024, I was lucky enough to be selected for the Peer-to-Peer Fellowship at the University of Arizona Water Resources Research Center (WRRC). As a visitor from Tanzania, I was excited to immerse myself in the study of transboundary networks and southwest regional water resource policy. I am grateful to Dr. Sharon Megdal for the opportunity and to the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine for sponsoring me. I came with the expectation of deepening my understanding of transboundary networks and their significance while expanding my expertise and connections in water policy. I am delighted that my expectations have been met. Over the past weeks, I have gained extensive knowledge about transboundary water networks and organizations working on transboundary surface and groundwater management. My work has focused on mapping and identifying key transboundary water networks, programs, and organizations that oversee shared aquifers, river basins, and freshwater resources across different regions. This research systematically categorizes these organizations based on their scope (e.g., global, regional, or multi-regional) and examines their mandates, governance structures, and operational coverage. During my time at the WRRC, I also learned about Arizona’s water resources and ongoing projects in the region. This experience has been invaluable not only for learning but also for networking.
Dr. Megdal has been incredibly supportive, connecting me with key networks, including the Women in Water Diplomacy Network and various hydrology and water associations. I even met colleagues from my home country, further enriching my experience. These networks are invaluable for me as an early-career researcher. Beyond academics, Dr. Megdal and her team have shown genuine concern for my well-being, making this experience even more meaningful.