Correct Option: D. Co-ordinate their efforts in managing the use of the lake's resources Detailed Explanation: The Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC) was established in 1964 with the primary goal of promoting cooperation among the member states that share the Lake Chad Basin. These member states include Chad, Cameroon, Niger, and Nigeria. The commission was created to address the challenges posed by the shrinking of Lake Chad and to manage the shared water resources effectively.

1. Purpose of the LCBC: The main purpose of the LCBC is to coordinate the efforts of the member states in managing the lake's resources sustainably. This includes addressing issues such as water scarcity, environmental degradation, and the socio-economic needs of the communities that depend on the lake for their livelihoods. The commission aims to ensure that the resources are used equitably and sustainably, which is crucial given the lake's diminishing size.
2. Resource Management: The LCBC focuses on integrated water resource management, which involves planning and managing water resources in a way that balances social, economic, and environmental needs. This includes promoting sustainable fishing practices, managing agricultural water use, and ensuring that the lake's ecosystem is preserved.
3. Collaboration and Cooperation: The commission facilitates dialogue and cooperation among the member states, which is essential for addressing transboundary water issues. By working together, the countries can share best practices, develop joint projects, and create policies that benefit all parties involved.

Why the Other Options are Incorrect:

• Option A: Expand the volume of water in the lake for fishing activities: This option suggests a focus on increasing the water volume specifically for fishing. While fishing is an important activity for the local communities, the primary goal of the LCBC is not to artificially expand the lake's volume but to manage the existing resources sustainably. The lake's volume is influenced by various factors, including climate change and water management practices, which the commission aims to address holistically.
• Option B: Increase navigational activities on the lake: While navigation can be a component of resource management, it is not the primary focus of the LCBC. The commission's main objective is to manage the lake's resources sustainably rather than solely promoting navigation. Increased navigation could lead to over-exploitation of resources and environmental degradation if not managed properly.
• Option C: Dam the lake for electricity and agricultural purposes: This option implies a significant alteration of the lake's natural state, which is contrary to the LCBC's mission. Damming the lake could have severe ecological consequences and would likely lead to conflicts among member states over water rights and usage. The LCBC is more focused on sustainable management rather than large-scale infrastructural changes that could disrupt the ecosystem.

Summary of Key Points:

• The Lake Chad Basin Commission was established to promote cooperation among member states in managing the lake's resources sustainably.
• Its primary goal is to coordinate efforts to address water scarcity, environmental degradation, and socio-economic needs.
• The commission emphasizes integrated water resource management and collaboration among member states.
• The other options (A, B, C) focus on specific activities that do not align with the overarching goal of sustainable resource management.

This thorough understanding of the LCBC's purpose and objectives will help you grasp the importance of cooperative resource management in transboundary water systems.