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The government of the Lao PDR and UNICEF, with support from the Australian Government, are marking World Water Day by unveiling newly completed water supply systems in remote communities of Houaphanh and Phongsaly provinces.
(KPL) The government of the Lao PDR and UNICEF, with support from the Australian Government, are marking World Water Day by unveiling newly completed water supply systems in remote communities of Houaphanh and Phongsaly provinces.
Over the past 2 years, the Australian-funded Climate Resilient Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Programme has supported the construction of 28 gravity-fed water systems, and water and sanitation facilities in 29 schools and six health centres, delivering safe water to more than 12,000 people across several villages. The initiative is implemented in partnership with the Centre for Environmental Health and Water Supply (Nam Saat).
“These new water supply systems strengthen public health, particularly for children in remote areas,” said Mr. Sengphet Keomany, Director of Nam Saat, Government of Lao PDR. “They are a crucial step toward our national goal of universal access to safe water and sanitation.”
“Enhancing access to safe and clean water is essential for improving the health and well-being of individuals. Our support focuses on supporting remote communities access climate resilient water supply systems. This underscores our dedication to fostering climate resilience, equitable growth and sustainable development in Laos,” said H.E. Megan Jones, Australian Ambassador.
Built with climate resilience in mind, the new water systems are designed to withstand seasonal fluctuations while empowering local communities to maintain and manage their own water and sanitation services.
UNICEF also underscored the importance of expanding water access. “Ensuring no child is left behind is our top priority,” said Mr. Bilal Aurang Zeb Durrani, UNICEF Country Representative to Lao PDR. “Through partnerships like this, we can bring lasting solutions and essential services to even the most hard-to-reach communities.”
With support from the Australian Government, this initiative is now expanding to other two northern provinces, Oudomxay and Luang Namtha. In collaboration with Nam Papa and World Waternet, UNICEF will support a pilot of a new climate resilient compact water treatment plant in Luangnamtha, providing nearly 2,000 people with clean drinking water.
Water security is fundamental to the health and resilience of children and families. Yet, one million people in the Lao PDR—mostly in the poorest households—still lack access to basic water services, with climate change exacerbating challenges.
Recognized globally on March 22, the World Water Day highlights the link between water security and sustainable development. UNICEF and its partners are helping bring safe water to those who need it most—supporting the Lao PDR’s goal of sustainable water solutions for all.
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