Programme description

Title: Water Programme
Commissioned by: German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ)
Country: Palestinian territories
Lead executing agency: Palestinian Ministry of Planning and Administrative Development
Overall term: 2006 to 2015

Context

Both the quality and the quantity of the water available in the Palestinian territories are inadequate. Ineffective structures are leading to disorganised use and administrative shortcomings. Poor wastewater treatment is further jeopardising the scarce water resources. Major environmental pollution and health risks for the population are the consequences.

Objective

The capacity of the relevant institutions to manage and provide services in the water sector is improved. Poor and marginalised sectors of the population also benefit.

Approach

By taking a systematic multi-level approach in the water programme, GIZ is working to implement sustainable development and to create democratic structures for the water industry. The programme supports various regional and local institutions, including water utilities and municipal water departments, in the central and northern areas of the West Bank. GIZ is implementing the programme on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and working closely with KfW Entwicklungsbank.

Results achieved so far

Sustainable development is a core issue for GIZ. This applies equally in regions marked by conflict and political instability. The following measures have been implemented so far:

• Wells have been drilled or repaired. Today they supply 120,000 people in the West Bank with drinking water.
• Democratic structures and forums to discuss and adopt strategies for the sustainable management of the scarce water resources, such as the National Water Council, have received support.
• Palestinian water utilities have become more efficient and are better able to provide reliable, safe and affordable water and wastewater services. They serve nearly 30 % of the Palestinian population.
• A body to coordinate training for the sector has been established within the Palestinian Water Authority (PWA), and works successfully with minimal external support.
• A coordinating body for the Joint Water Committee has also been established within the Palestinian Water Authority (PWA).
• In addition to campaigns involving close to 30,000 school children, an interactive Arabic website has been developed to familiarise children with water and environmental issues.
• A water utility association has been established and serves as a platform to share knowledge and expertise.