World Bank grants 90 million USD to Niger for water and sanitation

26 May 2011

Last Monday, the World Bank granted a 90 million dollar loan to Niger to finance the Urban Water and Drainage Program (PEAMU).

It includes the extension of the network and an increase in water distribution and storage capacities, but also the construction of waste water collection systems in order to offer improved sanitation services.

This funding will improve access to drinking water and sanitation for all Nigerians, at an acceptable cost, reports a press release from the World Bank, published by the APS press agency.

As a result of this program, "half a million people in the towns of Niamey, Agadez, Arlit, Tahoua and in 23 other secondary urban centers will have direct access to running water", adds the WB.

The rate of coverage for demand for drinking water in Niger is currently 62 percent. The country aims to reach a rate of 80 percent by 2015, as part of the UN's Millennium Development Goals.
 

Category: Water