CONFLICT MANAGEMENT IN IRRIGATION WATER RESOURCES A CASE STUDY IN SEILA AT FAYOUM GOVERNORATE

This study aims to examine key issues in water resource management as manifested in irrigation water in some selected cases in Seila District, Fayoum Governorate. The study focused on the disagreements and disputes among the members of local community as related to irrigation water distribution, and resolution options for each stakeholder. The study examined the extent to which current trends of change have increased competitions for irrigation water resource among multiple stakeholders with diverse interests, causing a situation of conflict among them. Variance among those who could manage to resolve the conflict over water management and the others who fail to do so was investigated. Two cases from Seila area were investigated in order to explore the historical background, analyze contemporary causes, and review the role of local and higher level institutions in the situation. Analysts extended to exploring stakeholder agendas, analyzing social and power relations among the interested parties, and evaluating the benefits and costs of conflict management and resolution options for each stakeholder. Different methods were used for obtaining the data including On-site visits to the area, in-depth interviews, meetings with key persons, and group meetings and discussions. The study revealed that villages with high levels of social capital, in particular villages with active groups and associations, such as well-established and organized Water User Associations (WUAs), are more likely to be successful in protecting and monitoring their resources and deter free -riding.