Climate change is putting a strain on the water sector in Rwanda. This is the rationale behind a new partnership between Rwanda’s Water and Sanitation Corporation (WASAC) and the Public Utilities Board (PUB), Singapore’s national water agency. The MOU was signed on April 19, 2022, on the side-lines of the Singapore International Water Week (SIWW) 2022 and the Water Leaders’ Summit.
The aim is to improve the resilience of populations in the face of climate change, by rationing water use and finding alternative solutions to water stress. Rwanda wants to draw on the experience of PUB, which is known for its innovations in water supply, water network management and wastewater management.
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Specifically, the two partners will work on the research, development and commercialization of new water technologies for the detection and repair of leaks in water supply networks; as well as on the monitoring of the quality of the resource in Rwanda.
On-going training…
With regard to the “drinking water” component, Rwanda is aiming for universal access to drinking water by 2024. But currently, the country is struggling with water losses due to leaks and an inefficient billing system. As part of the agreement, Rwandan experts will visit Singapore’s water supply facilities to learn about their operation and maintenance techniques.
Emphasis will also be placed on professional meetings in Singapore, as well as training programs at the Singapore Water Academy, which focuses on the practice of urban water management.
Inès Magoum