Programme description

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

Context

The water available in the Palestinian Territories is inadequate in terms of both quality and quantity. Ineffective structures are leading to disorganised usage 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 relevant institutions' capacity to steer and provide services in the water sector has improved. Poor and marginalised sectors of the population also benefit.

Approach

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

Results achieved so far

Sustainable development is one of GTZ's main priorities. This is also true in a region marked by conflict and political instability.

• Wells have been drilled or repaired. Today they supply 120,000 people on 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.
• The Palestinian water utility has become more efficient and is better able to provide reliable, safe and affordable water and wastewater services. Nearly 30% of the Palestinian population is served.
• A body to coordinate training for the sector has been established within the Palestinian Water Authority (PWA), and works successfully with minimal external support.
• 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 was established and serves as a platform to share knowledge and expertise.