The stakes related to both water supply and status have been under discussion for several decades, and the necessary answers have yet to see the light of day; Non-governmental associations, international institutions, experts and the private sector have held discussions for several years without having reached agreement.

In the context of its water-related activities, the French Development Agency (Agence Française de Développement - AFD) contacted Bridge Initiative with a view to exploring the possibilities of organising a constructive dialogue between the various stakeholders.