The solutions offered by GIZ for problems in the water sector are modelled on Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM). IWRM is the new model for all those concerned with water - United Nations organisations as well as non-governmental and financial organisations.

IWRM is a management approach, in which the resource water is considered in the context of the entire ecosystem. Planning and management will involve all sectors that influence the complex fabric of the eco-system. Action in the water sector must focus on the sustainable use and protection of resources. Management and planning units are based on water catchment areas – independent of political borders – since problems of use and pollution do not stop at borders. All groups can participate - those exerting influence and those affected by it, and all economic and social interests will be considered.

One of GIZ's most important advisory services in the water sector is the reform of the sector itself. The aims of the GIZ product Reform of the Water Sector are to develop an effective policy encompassing all sectors, to create a suitable legal framework and to establish efficient institutions.

In addition, GIZ provides advice on the following issues:

• Urban Water Management and Decentralised Water Supply (rural areas) to promote secure, affordable and high-quality water supply and wastewater management in urban and rural areas by establishing efficient companies or autonomous structures.
• The concepts of Ecological Sanitation (ecosan) follow a holistic approach to sanitation and water management based on the principle of a systematic closure of local material cycles.
• The Water for Food concept aims to put partner institutions and water users into a position to increase water productivity in agriculture and at the same time to take ecological criteria into account.
• The requirements of IWRM are specifically met through advisory services on the Management of Water Basins. On a national level, agricultural policy and trade policy aspects beyond the scope of IWRM – e.g. the concept of ‘virtual water’ – are also considered and integrated.
• By promoting regional cooperation and integration, Transboundary Water Management provides support for the establishment and development of river basin organisations.