• share and discuss the results of the assessment of financing needs and support mechanisms for farmers' associations (GDAs);
• review international experience in the financing of rural water services; and
• identify further research and consultancy needs.

The target audience for this workshop were the regional agricultural development commissions (CRDAs), the Ministry of Agriculture, Hydraulic Resources and Fishery, and the GDAs. The workshop attracted a great deal of interest, and the number of participants exceeded expectations.

In the first session, ministry representative Mr. Ridha Gabouj talked about the current status of GDAs, ideas for reforms, and strategic considerations. His presentation was followed by questions and comments from participants.

The workshop continued with presentations on the challenges faced by the GDAs, international examples of financing rural water services, and GDA data on financing needs and equity among water users.