Africa | H2O Global News https://h2oglobalnews.com/category/africa/ International news on the water and water waste industries Thu, 09 Oct 2025 11:27:04 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://h2oglobalnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/cropped-H2O-Block-Logo-400x400-1-32x32.png Africa | H2O Global News https://h2oglobalnews.com/category/africa/ 32 32 Africa Water Investment Summit Mobilises USD 10–12 Billion in Preliminary Annual Pipelines; Launches Global Outlook Council https://h2oglobalnews.com/africa-water-investment-summit-2025/ Mon, 06 Oct 2025 10:01:40 +0000 https://h2oglobalnews.com/?p=22526 H2O Global News
Africa Water Investment Summit Mobilises USD 10–12 Billion in Preliminary Annual Pipelines; Launches Global Outlook Council

The inaugural Africa Water Investment Summit 2025, convened under the auspices of the African Union Commission (AU) and the Africa Water Investment Programme (AIP), has generated preliminary investment pipelines amounting to USD 10–12 billion annually. Held from 13 to 15 August in Cape Town, South Africa, the Summit drew more than 1,700 participants, including 20 […]

Africa Water Investment Summit Mobilises USD 10–12 Billion in Preliminary Annual Pipelines; Launches Global Outlook Council
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Africa Water Investment Summit Mobilises USD 10–12 Billion in Preliminary Annual Pipelines; Launches Global Outlook Council

The inaugural Africa Water Investment Summit 2025, convened under the auspices of the African Union Commission (AU) and the Africa Water Investment Programme (AIP), has generated preliminary investment pipelines amounting to USD 10–12 billion annually.

Held from 13 to 15 August in Cape Town, South Africa, the Summit drew more than 1,700 participants, including 20 African water ministers, Heads of State and Government representatives, financiers, multilateral development institutions, civil society, and academic leaders.

These pledges — made by governments, development banks, bilateral partners, and private investors — reflect commitments to the pipeline of bankable water and sanitation projects showcased during the Summit. The total excludes further pledges expected to be added via an online portal established for ongoing contributions.

The Summit outcomes include the adoption of the Cape Town Declaration on Africa Water Investment, which underscores Africa’s urgent need to close a USD 30 billion annual financing gap in water and sanitation.

In a landmark development, the Summit also launched the Global Outlook Council on Water Investments, established as a G20 Presidential Legacy Initiative under South Africa’s G20 Presidency. This Council will serve as a high-level platform to track progress, align financing flows, and advance water investment globally. :

President Cyril Ramaphosa, presiding over the Summit, remarked:

This Summit is a landmark moment not only for Africa, but for the global movement for access to safe water for all. If we rise together, water can become not just a means of survival but a driver of economic transformation, innovation and peace.

Commissioner Moses Vilakati of the AU emphasised the need for systemic change:

The Summit Declaration commits us to scaling up investment, improving governance, and increasing accountability in the water sector.

South Africa’s Minister of Water and Sanitation, Hon. Pemmy Majodina, thanked investors for their pledges and urged faster, more decisive implementation to transform Africa’s water infrastructure.

The Summit also recognised leadership through the Presidential Global Water Changemakers Awards, honouring governments and figures that have delivered exemplary action in water investments.

As the Summit closes, stakeholders emphasise that pledges must now be transformed into tangible projects through improved governance, enhanced capacity, data systems, and regulatory reform. The Summit provides key momentum ahead of the 2026 UN Water Conference, to be hosted by the Governments of Senegal and the United Arab Emirates.

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Africa Water Investment Summit Mobilises USD 10–12 Billion in Preliminary Annual Pipelines; Launches Global Outlook Council
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Veolia and PFO Africa to Operate One of West Africa’s Largest Drinking Water Treatment Plants in Ivory Coast https://h2oglobalnews.com/veolia-pfo-africa-ivory-coast-drinking-water/ Fri, 03 Oct 2025 11:35:19 +0000 https://h2oglobalnews.com/?p=22517 H2O Global News
Veolia and PFO Africa to Operate One of West Africa’s Largest Drinking Water Treatment Plants in Ivory Coast

Veolia, a global leader in ecological transformation, and PFO Africa, a major Ivorian construction and engineering company, have signed an agreement to operate two strategic drinking water treatment plants in Ivory Coast. Among them is the La Mé facility, recognised as one of the largest drinking water treatment plants in West Africa. Strengthening Ivory Coast’s […]

Veolia and PFO Africa to Operate One of West Africa’s Largest Drinking Water Treatment Plants in Ivory Coast
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Veolia and PFO Africa to Operate One of West Africa’s Largest Drinking Water Treatment Plants in Ivory Coast

Veolia, a global leader in ecological transformation, and PFO Africa, a major Ivorian construction and engineering company, have signed an agreement to operate two strategic drinking water treatment plants in Ivory Coast. Among them is the La Mé facility, recognised as one of the largest drinking water treatment plants in West Africa.

Strengthening Ivory Coast’s Water Infrastructure

The La Mé plant, located near Abidjan, has a daily production capacity of 240,000 cubic metres of drinking water. This supply will directly benefit millions of people in the Greater Abidjan area, a region experiencing rapid population growth and increasing pressure on existing water resources.

By ensuring reliable water treatment and delivery, the partnership supports the Ivorian government’s strategy to secure sustainable access to clean water, a critical factor for both public health and economic development.

International Expertise Meets Local Knowledge

Veolia brings decades of experience in the design, operation and optimisation of drinking water treatment facilities across the world. PFO Africa contributes extensive local expertise in infrastructure development and delivery. Together, the two companies will manage operations, maintenance and performance monitoring to guarantee high-quality water for communities.

The partnership demonstrates the value of combining international know-how with regional capacity to deliver long-term solutions that address Africa’s infrastructure challenges.

Driving Sustainable Development in West Africa

Access to safe drinking water remains a major challenge in many African countries. Urbanisation, climate change and population growth are increasing pressure on existing systems. The La Mé project therefore represents a milestone for sustainable development, enabling improved resilience to water scarcity and ensuring essential resources for future generations.

Through this initiative, Ivory Coast strengthens its leadership in sustainable infrastructure in West Africa and sets a benchmark for other nations seeking to expand and modernise their water networks.

Commitment to Communities

The collaboration will also focus on training and upskilling local teams to operate the facilities, creating long-term employment opportunities and ensuring knowledge transfer. By developing local capacity, Veolia and PFO Africa are ensuring that the benefits of this project extend well beyond infrastructure, supporting communities and regional economic growth.

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Veolia and PFO Africa to Operate One of West Africa’s Largest Drinking Water Treatment Plants in Ivory Coast
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INEXA and IonClear Form Alliance to Advance Smarter Desalination and Water Reuse Solutions https://h2oglobalnews.com/inexa-ionclear-desalination-water-reuse/ Mon, 22 Sep 2025 07:36:06 +0000 https://h2oglobalnews.com/?p=22319 H2O Global News
INEXA and IonClear Form Alliance to Advance Smarter Desalination and Water Reuse Solutions

INEXA Aqua Services SL, a leader in desalination plant engineering and performance optimisation, has partnered with IonClear, a Silicon Valley-based innovator in membrane technology, to deliver advanced water treatment systems designed for desalination, reclamation, and reuse applications worldwide. The strategic alliance integrates INEXA’s two decades of expertise in reverse osmosis (RO) plant design and optimisation […]

INEXA and IonClear Form Alliance to Advance Smarter Desalination and Water Reuse Solutions
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INEXA and IonClear Form Alliance to Advance Smarter Desalination and Water Reuse Solutions

INEXA Aqua Services SL, a leader in desalination plant engineering and performance optimisation, has partnered with IonClear, a Silicon Valley-based innovator in membrane technology, to deliver advanced water treatment systems designed for desalination, reclamation, and reuse applications worldwide.

The strategic alliance integrates INEXA’s two decades of expertise in reverse osmosis (RO) plant design and optimisation with IonClear’s high-performance RO and nanofiltration (NF) membranes. Together, the companies aim to improve water recovery rates, extend membrane lifespan, lower operational costs, and reduce the environmental footprint of large-scale water projects.

Integrated Capabilities for Sustainable Water Management

INEXA’s proprietary ROPTIMAX solutions and IonClear’s membrane technology will enable operators to build flexible, high-efficiency systems tailored to different feedwater sources — from seawater and brackish water to industrial process streams. This approach supports sustainable water management through recycling, reclamation, and reuse, moving towards zero liquid discharge (ZLD) solutions.

Fernando J. Suárez Pérez, CEO of INEXA, commented: “By uniting our strengths, we are not just improving large-scale desalination projects, we are redefining its economics and scalability. These water solutions are not only more efficient, but also more adaptable to the unique demands of each location and application.”

Proven Performance Gains

Early project data indicates that the combined technologies can deliver:

  • 15–20% reduction in energy consumption — lowering the single largest operating cost for plant operators.
  • Up to 40% increase in membrane lifespan — reducing replacement frequency and downtime.
  • Reduced unplanned outages — improving production consistency and reliability.

Cady Yu, CEO of IonClear, added: “This alliance accelerates our vision of maximising water recovery and minimising waste. With integrated design, engineering, and production capabilities, we can offer a level of system optimisation that is rare in the market.”

Growth in the Global Water Market

The global desalination market, valued at $18.1 billion in 2025, is projected to reach $28 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 9.1%. Beyond seawater desalination, the partnership’s expertise extends to brackish water treatment, industrial process water reuse, municipal water recycling, and ZLD systems. These areas contribute to the broader $390+ billion global water and wastewater treatment sector.

IonClear also plans to launch a new web-based design software in Q3 2025, giving engineers and operators enhanced tools for planning and optimisation of advanced water treatment systems.


Quick Reference Links

INEXA and IonClear Form Alliance to Advance Smarter Desalination and Water Reuse Solutions
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Surge for Water Celebrates 10 Years of Lasting Impact in Uganda Over 340,000 Lives Served Through Water+ Solutions https://h2oglobalnews.com/surge-for-water-celebrates-10-years-of-lasting-impact-in-uganda/ Wed, 23 Jul 2025 09:07:39 +0000 https://h2oglobalnews.com/?p=21641 H2O Global News
Surge for Water Celebrates 10 Years of Lasting Impact in Uganda <h2 class='sub-title'>Over 340,000 Lives Served Through Water+ Solutions</h2>

Surge for Water, a global women-led, community-driven nonprofit dedicated to providing sustainable Water+ programs that include safe water, sanitation, hygiene, and menstrual health solutions, is celebrating 10 years of transformative work in Uganda, where its programs serve a population of more than 340,000 people across Kaberamaido, Kalaki and Amolatar Districts. This milestone reflects a decade […]

Surge for Water Celebrates 10 Years of Lasting Impact in Uganda <h2 class='sub-title'>Over 340,000 Lives Served Through Water+ Solutions</h2>
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Surge for Water Celebrates 10 Years of Lasting Impact in Uganda <h2 class='sub-title'>Over 340,000 Lives Served Through Water+ Solutions</h2>

Surge for Water, a global women-led, community-driven nonprofit dedicated to providing sustainable Water+ programs that include safe water, sanitation, hygiene, and menstrual health solutions, is celebrating 10 years of transformative work in Uganda, where its programs serve a population of more than 340,000 people across Kaberamaido, Kalaki and Amolatar Districts. This milestone reflects a decade of dedicated partnership, deep community engagement and sustainable change.

“Today, we celebrate a decade of lasting change in Uganda—change made possible through deep-rooted community partnerships and our unwavering belief in the power of local leadership, especially the leadership of women,” said Surge for Water Founder and Executive Director Shilpa Alva. “This milestone is not just a reflection of what we’ve achieved but a promise of what’s to come.”

Over 10 years in Uganda, Surge has implemented:

  • 1 solar well
  • 40 well drills
  • 202 well fixes
  • 18 spring protections
  • 3 rainwater harvesting systems
  • 320 classroom water filters
  • 170 household water filters
  • 97 toilet blocks
  • 115 community handwashing stations
  • 248 household handwashing stations
  • 637 sessions on soap making
  • 638 sessions on WASH Training
  • 957 sessions on menstrual health

Since 2015, Surge has brought meaningful change to schools, homes and communities by delivering comprehensive Water+ solutions while working to ensure every person has access to safe water and the tools to lead healthier, more dignified lives.

In Uganda, Surge works in close partnership with POPOW, a community-based, women-led organization, to ensure true local ownership of every initiative. While Surge provides funding, technical support, and training resources, POPOW leads implementation, such as mobilizing local leaders, employing community members, and delivering culturally relevant programs. This trusted collaboration has led to POPOW’s official recognition as the district WASH NGO partner, granting the alliance significant influence over water, sanitation, and menstrual health policy. Together, they are driving systemic, community-led change with long-term sustainability at its core.

“POPOW has employed 25 women in Uganda–- over 60% of the total people employed, demonstrating our commitment to supporting women economically and professionally,” said Florence Ringe, Founder & Executive Director of POPOW. “For us, impact is about more than safe water—it’s about access to education opportunities, reduced illness, increased household income, and stronger women’s leadership and community ownership to sustain it all. These outcomes lay the foundation for lasting change.”

Surge for Water is quickly growing, which means a deeper impact beyond water—improvements in health, education, and opportunity for entire communities to thrive. In 2024 alone, Surge for Water impacted 129,521 people across Haiti, Indonesia and Uganda, installing 1,310 sustainable water systems, 21 toilets that ensure privacy, safety and comfort for all students, 519 hygiene education sessions and 294 menstrual health education sessions. Between now and 2030, Surge is scaling its service area from 4 to 10 geographical regions with a combined population of 1 million people. These goals reflect Surge’s belief in the power of grassroots leadership and its commitment to creating systemic, lasting change.

To get engaged with helping provide sustainable water, sanitation, and hygiene solutions to those most in need, engage with Surge for Water by visiting surgeforwater.org.

Surge for Water Celebrates 10 Years of Lasting Impact in Uganda <h2 class='sub-title'>Over 340,000 Lives Served Through Water+ Solutions</h2>
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The OpenAg Foundation launches raising $1.3 million USD for water security project to help one million in Southern Africa https://h2oglobalnews.com/the-openag-foundation-launches-raising-1-3-million-usd-for-water-security-project-to-help-one-million-in-southern-africa/ Mon, 09 Jun 2025 10:12:05 +0000 https://h2oglobalnews.com/?p=21150 H2O Global News
The OpenAg Foundation launches raising $1.3 million USD for water security project to help one million in Southern Africa

An event in Cannes has marked the launch of The OpenAg Foundation, a non-profit foundation on a mission to deliver food security, develop farmer resilience, and support smallholder farmers facing the effects of climate change. Its inaugural initiative, Water for Harmony, aims to drill 1,000 boreholes in Southern Africa, bringing clean drinking water to an […]

The OpenAg Foundation launches raising $1.3 million USD for water security project to help one million in Southern Africa
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The OpenAg Foundation launches raising $1.3 million USD for water security project to help one million in Southern Africa

An event in Cannes has marked the launch of The OpenAg Foundation, a non-profit foundation on a mission to deliver food security, develop farmer resilience, and support smallholder farmers facing the effects of climate change.

Its inaugural initiative, Water for Harmony, aims to drill 1,000 boreholes in Southern Africa, bringing clean drinking water to an estimated one million people. The campaign successfully raised $1.3million USD towards the programme during the event.

The boreholes will supply clean water to people, livestock, and wildlife, enabling farmers to irrigate crops and easing tensions in regions where scarce resources have fuelled conflict. The scheme follows a successful pilot project to drill 10 boreholes in Zambia, where less than half of the nation’s rural population has access to basic drinking water services.

The OpenAg Foundation will be Chaired by Jai Shroff, one of the world’s leading voices on sustainable agricultural development, along with an experienced board bringing together experts in sustainability, business, and politics from across the developing world.

The board includes:

  • Mauricio Macri, Former President of Argentina and President of the FIFA Foundation
  • Chipokota Mwanawasa, a Zambian lawyer, farmer and entrepreneur
  • Sean de Cleene, Co-Chair Emeritus of Grow Africa
  • Fatma Al Khater, Founder of Torba Farms Qatar
  • David Schaerli, private banker and lawyer

The OpenAg Foundation will shortly announce its CEO and other key positions.

The Foundation seeks to become a driving force in global food security, and work with all stakeholders in the global food chain to institute sustainable practices at the smallholder farmer level. The not-for-profit’s activities include providing financial and technical assistance to farmers; advocating for radical policies and legislation; and facilitating access to high quality inputs, such as low cost, genetically improved seeds.

Jai Shroff announced the launch of the Foundation and the borehole project at a fundraising event held at the Martinez Hotel Cannes Film Festival, in partnership with Chopard. Guests were invited to ‘adopt a borehole’ in Southern Africa, each of which is estimated to support 250–500 people. Outside of fundraising activities, The OpenAg Foundation receives funding from corporations, development finance, and private donors.

The launch of the borehole project follows a new report from the Copernicus Global Drought Observatory, warning that rising global temperatures and less than average rainfall have significantly worsened drought conditions across the continent (link).

Jai Shroff, Chairman of the OpenAg Foundation, said: “The role of smallholder farmers has never been so important. On one hand, they need access to new technology, seeds, and even basic needs like clean drinking water – while on the other, they need backing at a policy level to help increase food security across the world.

“This is why we launched The OpenAg Foundation. We want to transition farmers to sustainable agricultural methods and build coalitions that create a lasting change. But too many of these farmers are living in extreme poverty, so we need to target their short-term survival and prosperity, too.

“We launched the Water for Harmony project to achieve just that. With much of Africa gripped by drought, we want to provide communities with fresh running water to feed their families and livestock, and irrigate their failing crops. Ultimately, we want to support smallholder farmers at every stage of their lives.”

The OpenAg Foundation launches raising $1.3 million USD for water security project to help one million in Southern Africa
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South West Water customers have raised more than £11 million for WaterAid https://h2oglobalnews.com/south-west-water-customers-have-raised-more-than-11-million-for-wateraid/ Wed, 02 Apr 2025 09:57:15 +0000 https://h2oglobalnews.com/?p=20292 H2O Global News
South West Water customers have raised more than £11 million for WaterAid

South West Water customers have raised more than £11.4 million for WaterAid since 1990 after adding £653,000 in donations last year. This generous contribution in 2024 is enough to provide clean water to more than 30,700 people, helping to improve global access to clean water. With World Water Day this month, it serves as a […]

South West Water customers have raised more than £11 million for WaterAid
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South West Water customers have raised more than £11 million for WaterAid

South West Water customers have raised more than £11.4 million for WaterAid since 1990 after adding £653,000 in donations last year.

This generous contribution in 2024 is enough to provide clean water to more than 30,700 people, helping to improve global access to clean water.

With World Water Day this month, it serves as a reminder that through the support of these donations, WaterAid has been able to work alongside communities around the world to bring clean water to people facing severe challenges.

This support has enabled WaterAid to make a meaningful difference in regions like Mangochi District, Malawi, where communities are grappling with extreme drought, food insecurity, and the devastating aftermath of a cholera outbreak.

Thanks to the dedication of South West Water customers, WaterAid is partnering with local organisations to bring clean, reliable water to the area. The project includes a solar-powered water system and eight taps, ensuring a steady supply of water to the local primary school and surrounding communities.

Sileni, a 33-year-old mother from Mangochi, shared the life-changing impact the new water system has had on her community. She said: “The past was a time of hardship. Life was hard then. But now there is water nearby. When the children come back from school and are doing their household chores, they can just draw however much water they need at that moment, and then go and do whatever they want afterwards.”

Dani Twelvetree, South West Water’s WaterAid Co-Chair, said: “We are incredibly proud of the support our customers have provided to WaterAid. The positive impact their contributions have made is truly remarkable. Access to clean water is essential to health and wellbeing, and our customers are helping to make a lasting difference in communities that need it most.”

The installation of this new water system means that women and girls no longer have to spend hours walking long distances to collect dirty water, enabling them to focus on education, work, and their families.

South West Water customers have raised more than £11 million for WaterAid
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Liquid I.V.® awards $200,000 to Surge for Water to bring clean water solutions to remote communities in Indonesia Donation strengthens communities and transforms lives through innovation, sustainability and community empowerment https://h2oglobalnews.com/surge-for-water-to-bring-clean-water-solutions-to-remote-communities/ Thu, 06 Feb 2025 12:43:54 +0000 https://h2oglobalnews.com/?p=19389 H2O Global News
Liquid I.V.® awards $200,000 to Surge for Water to bring clean water solutions to remote communities in Indonesia <h2 class='sub-title'>Donation strengthens communities and transforms lives through innovation, sustainability and community empowerment</h2>

Liquid I.V., the #1 powdered hydration brand in America, is proud to announce its first-ever initiative in Indonesia through an impactful partnership with Surge for Water, a global women-led, community driven nonprofit dedicated to providing sustainable water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) solutions. This collaboration will transform water access in Sumba Tengah, Indonesia, impacting over 10,400 […]

Liquid I.V.® awards $200,000 to Surge for Water to bring clean water solutions to remote communities in Indonesia <h2 class='sub-title'>Donation strengthens communities and transforms lives through innovation, sustainability and community empowerment</h2>
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Liquid I.V.® awards $200,000 to Surge for Water to bring clean water solutions to remote communities in Indonesia <h2 class='sub-title'>Donation strengthens communities and transforms lives through innovation, sustainability and community empowerment</h2>

Liquid I.V., the #1 powdered hydration brand in America, is proud to announce its first-ever initiative in Indonesia through an impactful partnership with Surge for Water, a global women-led, community driven nonprofit dedicated to providing sustainable water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) solutions. This collaboration will transform water access in Sumba Tengah, Indonesia, impacting over 10,400 individuals, including students, teachers, and local villagers.

As part of this partnership, Liquid I.V. will donate $200,000 to Surge for Water to fund the implementation of 31 rainwater harvesting systems, four motorized wells, and the installation of 228 locally produced water purification filters across 76 elementary schools. As a result, every elementary school in Sumba Tengah, one of Indonesia’s most underserved regions, will have access to clean water. These efforts align with Surge’s holistic, women-centered approach, ensuring sustainable solutions that uplift communities and improve quality of life.

“We believe that access to clean water is a fundamental human right and we’re committed to delivering hydration where it’s needed most,” said Jayce Newton, Director of Impact. “Partnering with leading humanitarian and community-based organizations to fund water access projects is at the core of our mission and we’re honored to collaborate with Surge for Water to bring life-changing water access to communities in need.”

Through this initiative, Surge will also conduct comprehensive training programs on the maintenance of water systems, prioritizing community ownership and sustainability. By connecting with local organizations and stakeholders, a ripple effect of health, education, and economic improvements will be felt across the region.

“We are deeply grateful for Liquid I.V.’s generous support. This partnership is a significant step forward in our long-term mission of ending the water crisis in some of the world’s most remote and vulnerable communities, as well as our more immediate goal of reaching 1 million people across ten districts in Uganda, Haiti and Indonesia by 2030,” said Shilpa Alva, Founder and Executive Director of Surge for Water. “Together, we are not only providing clean water but also investing in the future of women and children, helping them lead healthier, more productive lives.”

The project will span one year, from December 2024 to November 2025, with phased implementation to ensure effectiveness and long-term success. This collaboration underscores both organizations’ commitment to addressing water scarcity and advancing global equity.

To get engaged with helping provide sustainable water, sanitation, and hygiene solutions to those most in need, engage with Surge for Water by visiting surgeforwater.org.

Liquid I.V.® awards $200,000 to Surge for Water to bring clean water solutions to remote communities in Indonesia <h2 class='sub-title'>Donation strengthens communities and transforms lives through innovation, sustainability and community empowerment</h2>
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Stantec to spearhead design for South Niagara Wastewater Treatment Solutions projects Wastewater treatment plant and trunk sewer will create infrastructure for Niagara Region to grow https://h2oglobalnews.com/south-niagara-wastewater-treatment-solutions-projects/ Thu, 30 Jan 2025 10:42:36 +0000 https://h2oglobalnews.com/?p=19180 H2O Global News
Stantec to spearhead design for South Niagara Wastewater Treatment Solutions projects <h2 class='sub-title'>Wastewater treatment plant and trunk sewer will create infrastructure for Niagara Region to grow</h2>

The Regional Municipality of Niagara, Ontario, has awarded Stantec two projects in the Region’s South Niagara Wastewater Treatment Solutions (SNWWTS) program. Stantec, a global leader in sustainable design and engineering, will provide detailed design and provisional construction management services for the new South Niagara Wastewater Treatment Plant and outfall, as well as the new South […]

Stantec to spearhead design for South Niagara Wastewater Treatment Solutions projects <h2 class='sub-title'>Wastewater treatment plant and trunk sewer will create infrastructure for Niagara Region to grow</h2>
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Stantec to spearhead design for South Niagara Wastewater Treatment Solutions projects <h2 class='sub-title'>Wastewater treatment plant and trunk sewer will create infrastructure for Niagara Region to grow</h2>

The Regional Municipality of Niagara, Ontario, has awarded Stantec two projects in the Region’s South Niagara Wastewater Treatment Solutions (SNWWTS) program. Stantec, a global leader in sustainable design and engineering, will provide detailed design and provisional construction management services for the new South Niagara Wastewater Treatment Plant and outfall, as well as the new South Niagara Trunk Sewer.

Once complete, these projects will play a crucial role in managing wastewater as the City of Niagara Falls and surrounding municipalities continue to grow. The Region has forecasted increased wastewater flows due to residential and employment growth, including the City of Niagara Falls’ tourism industry.

The new greenfield wastewater treatment plant, along with the deep trunk sewer conveying flows to it, will accommodate this growth and reduce the impacts of wet weather flows.

“This is an important and transformative effort that will develop the infrastructure for the Niagara region to grow,” said Mike Kocher, Stantec’s design manager on the new South Niagara Wastewater Treatment Plant. “Our local multidiscipline staff, along with our team of international experts, are excited to work alongside Niagara Region to deliver this project that will help provide sustainable and reliable service for the area.”

The overall SNWWTS program, which has a total estimated capital cost of C$400 million, will service growth and reduce the risk of basement flooding and system overflows. The wastewater treatment plant, expected to complete construction in 2029, is anticipated to have a rated capacity of 30 million litres of wastewater per day.

“These projects mean a lot to me, as a resident of the Niagara region,” said Neil Harvey, Stantec’s project manager for the new South Niagara Trunk Sewer. “We’re ready for the opportunity, with a committed design and construction team that has a long history of successfully delivering projects together.”

As part of the design for the wastewater treatment plant, the project team will evaluate the opportunity to pursue Envision verification, an environmental and social certification for sustainable infrastructure projects. In 2015, Stantec achieved the first Envision-verified project in Canada with the Grand Bend Area Wastewater Treatment Facility in Ontario.

Stantec is also providing its expertise for one of the facilities that will contribute flows to the new wastewater treatment plant, the South Niagara Hospital. The firm’s Buildings team is providing planning, design, and conformance services for the new greenfield hospital, which will consolidate services from three sites and make it easier for residents to access the care they need.

Stantec to spearhead design for South Niagara Wastewater Treatment Solutions projects <h2 class='sub-title'>Wastewater treatment plant and trunk sewer will create infrastructure for Niagara Region to grow</h2>
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WaterEquity Announces $100M+ Raised for New Impact Fund Focused on Climate-Resilient Water and Sanitation Infrastructure https://h2oglobalnews.com/waterequity-announces-100m-raised-for-new-impact-fund-focused-on-climate-resilient-water-and-sanitation-infrastructure/ Wed, 11 Sep 2024 12:10:20 +0000 https://h2oglobalnews.com/?p=16538 H2O Global News
WaterEquity Announces $100M+ Raised for New Impact Fund Focused on Climate-Resilient Water and Sanitation Infrastructure

WaterEquity, an asset manager dedicated to financing water and sanitation solutions in emerging and frontier markets, today announced it has achieved a milestone in raising more than $100 million for its Water & Climate Resilience Fund (the “Fund”). This new private investment fund brings together a group of corporate, foundation, and institutional investors committed to […]

WaterEquity Announces $100M+ Raised for New Impact Fund Focused on Climate-Resilient Water and Sanitation Infrastructure
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WaterEquity Announces $100M+ Raised for New Impact Fund Focused on Climate-Resilient Water and Sanitation Infrastructure

WaterEquity, an asset manager dedicated to financing water and sanitation solutions in emerging and frontier markets, today announced it has achieved a milestone in raising more than $100 million for its Water & Climate Resilience Fund (the “Fund”). This new private investment fund brings together a group of corporate, foundation, and institutional investors committed to driving collective action across water stewardship, sustainable development, and climate resilience. Investors include Microsoft, through their Climate Innovation Fund, as anchor investor, Starbucks and Xylem as strategic investors, alongside Ecolab, Reckitt, Gap Inc., and others.

“Water is at the core of every major global challenge we face today. Addressing the global water and sanitation crisis is not just about providing access to safe water; it’s about building resilience to climate change, advancing global gender equality, and transforming health and education outcomes for millions of people. Investing in water infrastructure is one of the most powerful ways we can create a brighter, more sustainable future for everyone.” — Matt Damon, Co-founder of WaterEquity and Water.org

According to the World Bank, investments in this sector must at least quadruple from current levels to fully achieve Sustainable Development Goal 6 — clean water and sanitation for all. There is an urgent need to invest in water infrastructure around the world to reach billions of people who are increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Water supply and sanitation infrastructure has been historically underfunded. Climate change continues to exacerbate the water crisis, particularly for vulnerable populations, as increased storms, floods, and droughts damage infrastructure and elevate water stress.

This investment milestone marks a pivotal moment of collective action among diverse investors to use investment as a tool to advance a water-positive future. The global water crisis poses significant risks to global supply chains, profitability, and community well-being, as it is both an economic and humanitarian issue. These risks are amplified by the intersection of the water crisis and climate change.

“By bringing together a diverse group of committed water and climate partners, we are directly addressing the need for water and sanitation solutions in communities vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Our hope is the Water & Climate Resilience Fund will become a testament to the powerful role that strategic collective investments can play in building resilience, protecting lives, and ensuring a sustainable future.” — Paul O’Connell, President and Chief Executive Officer of WaterEquity

The Fund will invest equity and debt capital in projects and growth companies working across the water value chain, such as bulk water supply, water distribution, wastewater treatment, and water reuse. At its target fund size, the Fund aims to reach 15 million people with safe water or sanitation access across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. WaterEquity previously launched four impact funds addressing the need for household-level financing for water and sanitation. This new Fund intends to build on that foundation by financing the climate-resilient infrastructure necessary for households to connect to essential services. The infrastructure strategy adds a new dimension—building climate resilience for vulnerable populations. In reaching this fundraising milestone, the Fund has raised over half of its total target of $200 million—taking a momentous step towards addressing an urgent need for communities.

The Fund is part of a larger investment strategy that aims to invest in climate-resilient water and sanitation infrastructure alongside household solutions with the goal of bringing sustainable water and sanitation access to 100 million people.

The Fund’s strategy is tailored to making private investments in emerging and frontier markets’ water and sanitation sectors, focusing on a portfolio of projects and growth companies. As an example, one of the Fund’s initial investments is expected to be in a growth company in India specializing in freshwater management. This company provides efficient and sustainable solutions through a patented rainwater harvesting system, addressing a niche market driven by water scarcity, floodwater mitigation, and sustainability needs in water-stressed communities in India. With 18 percent of the world’s population but only 4 percent of its water resources, India is among the most water-starved countries globally. The impact of this investment is intended to help mitigate water scarcity by making rainwater available for non-potable use and by recharging underground aquifers. These efforts address the urgent challenges of groundwater overexploitation and flood impacts, offering resilience benefits.

“Our investments in climate-resilient water infrastructure and innovative solutions are not just intended to meet for immediate needs but also to build long-term resilience for millions of people in low-income populations. This strategy has the power to transform communities, secure water resources, and create lasting impacts for generations. The Water & Climate Resilience Fund will exemplify how private investment can tackle the most urgent water and sanitation challenges in emerging markets.” – Marlene Hormes, Chief Investment Officer, WaterEquity

WaterEquity and non-profit organization Water.org, both founded by Gary White and Matt Damon, operate with a unified vision of safe water and sanitation for all. Together, they harness the capital markets to help end the global water crisis. Water.org develops a pipeline of investable opportunities through capacity-building and project development support, while WaterEquity manages private investment funds that aim to generate water and sanitation impact while seeking a financial return for accredited investors. This relationship, which draws upon support from philanthropic donors and accredited investors, seeks to maximize both organizations’ impact, to reach more people in need, faster, with universal access to safe water and sanitation.

WaterEquity Announces $100M+ Raised for New Impact Fund Focused on Climate-Resilient Water and Sanitation Infrastructure
H2O Team

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Ghana ministers attend water and construction event  https://h2oglobalnews.com/ghana-ministers-attend-water-and-construction-event/ Tue, 11 Jun 2024 15:33:27 +0000 https://h2oglobalnews.com/staging/8414/?p=14305 H2O Global News
Ghana ministers attend water and construction event 

Ghana’s Minister of Sanitation & Water Resources, Lydia Seyram Alhassan, and the Minister of Works & Housing, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, will deliver keynote speeches at Water Africa and West Africa Building & Construction 2024, which takes place in Accra on 26-28 June. The guests of honour will tour the exhibition, meeting delegates and exhibitors, and […]

Ghana ministers attend water and construction event 
H2O Team

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H2O Global News
Ghana ministers attend water and construction event 

Ghana’s Minister of Sanitation & Water Resources, Lydia Seyram Alhassan, and the Minister of Works & Housing, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, will deliver keynote speeches at Water Africa and West Africa Building & Construction 2024, which takes place in Accra on 26-28 June. The guests of honour will tour the exhibition, meeting delegates and exhibitors, and hearing about the technologies and solutions being brought to bear on water and construction challenges in Africa and globally.

The free-to-attend event takes place at the Accra International Conference and features a three-day seminar and workshop programmme alongside the exhibition.

Colin Shaw, director, ACE Event Management said, “It is our great pleasure to welcome the Minister of Sanitation & Water Resources and the Minister of Works & Housing to Water Africa and West Africa Building & Construction 2024. Their participation underscores the importance of water, sanitation and housing in meeting all UN sustainable development goals in Ghana and across Africa.

“They underpin poverty reduction, economic growth, health and education, gender equality and environmental sustainability. There couldn’t be a more urgent need for this community of professionals to come together, network and share knowledge and expertise.”

Day one of the packed seminar programme focuses on water and sanitation, and delegates will hear from expert speakers and panellists about investment opportunities, along with initiatives to support climate resilience, flood management, pollution reduction and water quality enhancement. The day is chaired by Steve Anoff Amoaning-Yankson, managing director of Municipal Development Collaboration.

On day two, building and construction will be the focus of the morning session and topics include delivery of housing for low-income communities, and innovations in building and construction. The afternoon will feature practical case studies of solutions to environmental challenges from across Africa, and will be chaired by Michael Obeng Konadu, chair of the civil technical division of Ghana Institution of Engineering.

Addressing flood challenges will be the theme of a certificated CPD (Continuous Professional Development) workshop on 28 June. Participation is available to all event registrants, and attendees will explore developments in integrated urban water management (IUWM) and gain practically-orientated knowledge and insights. 

The wide-ranging sessions will cover the impact of urbanisation on river catchments, innovation and technology, and climate adaptation through water sensitive urban design. Programme instructor is Bob Andoh, adjunct professor at the University of Energy & Natural Resources, Sunyani, Ghana, and visiting professor at Liverpool John Moores University, UK. Harold Esseku, a council member of GhIE and senior WASH specialist at the World Bank will chair the day’s programme.

Shaw concluded, “This is the 30th anniversary of Water Africa, which ACE Event Management is delivering in proud partnership with the Ghana Institution of Engineering, and I’d like to give special thanks to GhIE president Kwabena Brempong for his support in building such a comprehensive programme. The event is open to all, and we look forward to welcoming delegates and dignitaries alike.”  

Water Africa and West Africa Building & Construction 2024 exhibition and seminars are co-located at Accra International Conference Centre and take place 26-28 June 2024 in Accra, Ghana. For more information visit https://www.ace-events.com. To register, visit https://register.eazytagg.com/sug9.

Ghana ministers attend water and construction event 
H2O Team

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