That’s because the Korean Green Growth Trust Fund, in collaboration with the World Bank Water Global Practice, had organized a Knowledge Exchange event that would focus on water-related issues; how to mainstream green growth concepts in water resource management; and water and sanitation service provision.
Why Korea?
For us, an appreciation of the history of South Korea was a key part of our learning experience.
In addition, 65% of South Korea is mountainous, making water storage that much more difficult.
Key Learnings Korea impressed us with its use of integrated data and Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) for disaster forecasting, planning, & response; the clear division of roles between ministries and agencies; the self-regulation of the industry; and overall inclusion of environmental aspects in infrastructure development (Green Growth).
In particular, the reclamation and restoration of the Cheonggyecheon River resonated well with the delegation, as Kenya is in the process of reclaiming and cleaning up the Nairobi River, a process that requires intense political courage, stakeholder engagement, and deep commitment to green growth principles.
An interesting story of restoration and renewal (and political courage!)
In 1958 the decision was taken to cover the stream for public safety, and from 1968—1978 the Cheonggyero Expressway was constructed over the covered stream.
However, as demand grew for a better quality of life, a vision for recuperation of the environment and restoration of local culture emerged, and in 2002 Mayor Lee Myung-Bak of Seoul City launched the restoration program for the Cheonggyecheon River.
This would be no small feat, as the area had become the most overcrowded part of the city, with 60,000 businesses, 200,000 shopkeepers, an estimated 170,000 vehicles using the elevated expressway, and 1 million people passing through the area per day, causing traffic chaos, severe congestion and crime.