Amman, Aug. 9 (Petra) -- The Ministry of Water and Irrigation launched technical assistance advisory services Sunday for the Water Sector Efficiency Improvement Project, with broad participation from the World Bank, the French Development Agency (AFD), the Ministry of Planning and International Cooperation, the Jordan Valley Authority (JVA) and water companies.
The advisory launch represents a "strategic" partnership supporting one of the kingdom's key national programs, running through 2028 at a total cost of about $300 million funded by the World Bank, a trust fund and co-financing, said Sultan Mashaqbeh, director of planning and administration at the Water Authority.
According to a ministry statement, Mashaqbeh said the program aims to raise "efficiency" across the water sector, reduce losses, improve distribution systems, implement energy projects, cut electricity consumption and strengthen the sustainability of water services across the kingdom's governorates.
As for its role, the consultant will provide "direct" support to project management and implementation units in procurement, contract management, financial and technical monitoring, and meeting Project Development Objective (PDO) indicators, Mashaqbeh said.
He stated this effort would ensure projects are carried out efficiently and the program's development goals are met.
He said the program, coordinated with the Ministry of Water and Irrigation and the JVA, aims to develop water distribution plans, strengthen annual planning for water allocations, prepare drought response and risk management plans, develop drought monitoring and information-sharing systems, and improve the management, readiness and safety of dams and water storage facilities.
He said this activity will bolster water security and ensure sustainable supply for Jordan's municipal and agricultural use.
Mashaqbeh called the launch of the advisory services a "milestone and a close strategic" partnership supporting one of the water sector's crucial national development programs.
He also thanked international partners, led by the World Bank and the French Development Agency, for their continued support in financing strategic investments and advancing structural and institutional reforms nationwide.
In turn, the consulting firm presented an overview of its technical assistance approach, as well as a training program for sector staff.
//Petra// NQ
