Abstract
The aim of this study is to assess the relationships between the main stakeholders involved in water management in Sidi Bel Abbes city (western Algeria) to establish pathways for good governance, fair allocation and sustainability of water resources. A multi-stakeholder analysis was performed using the MACTOR method (method of actors and power relations) to analyze stakeholder strategies, alliances, and potential conflicts regarding water management. Data for the study were collected mainly during multi-stakeholder workshops with 6 main stakeholders who are directly involved in managing potable water. A field survey of 329 local households was conducted with the use of supplementary questionnaires. This study proposes that the power dynamics among actors should be considered during the decision-making process to improve collaborative interactions and the effectiveness of stakeholders engaged in water management. The research findings show that the stakeholder’s roles and strategies should be coordinated and strengthened to ensure equitable allocation of water. Technical public agencies deploy management strategies that do not consider water quality as a priority, and they are more concerned with other strategic objectives. Additionally, the stakeholders disagree on many issues relating to water management due to overlapping and conflicting powers, which threatens the quality and availability of water resources. The study also demonstrated that the National Sanitation Office could play an important role as a relay stakeholder and that the Hydrographic Basins Agency should strengthen alliances and commitments with all stakeholders. Enhancing the participation of these stakeholders in water management procedures and empowering domestic water end users, particularly in densely populated residential areas, could help bridge divides and foster a unified approach to achieving sustainable water management objectives.