Context
Decades of civil war have prevented the water infrastructure in South Sudan from developing beyond the initial stages. Still today, more than half the population has no access to clean drinking water and a decent sanitation system. The most recent conflict, which erupted at the end of 2013, has now exacerbated the situation. Most severely affected are the internally displaced persons and their host communities.
Furthermore, the institutional framework required to support the sustainable development of the water and sanitation sector is not in place. At all levels, from the water operating facilities to the responsible authorities and ministries, there is an acute shortage of skilled personnel and know-how. Most of the people are poor and currently rely to a great extent on untreated water from rivers, wells and springs. High levels of internal migration are increasing the pressure. In particular the returning refugees are moving into the urban centres.
Objective
Conditions have improved for the supply of drinking water and sanitation, especially to the poorer, urban population.
Approach
GIZ is cooperating with the main actors in the water sector at all levels, and supporting them as they perform their functions. The programme is advising the water ministry on the drafting of a water law that will set out a comprehensive legal framework for the institutional reform of the water sector. The partner institutions are also receiving support for the development of regulatory instruments, as well as advice on planning municipal investments in the sector and with respect to donor coordination. GFA Consulting Group provides advice and training for the management and operating staff of the water utilities established by GIZ.
In close cooperation with the counties and municipalities, the programme is supporting four towns in establishing the preconditions for investment measures by KfW Development Bank, such as water kiosks and public sanitation facilities.
Following the outbreak of conflict in December 2013 there was a need to adapt the activities, above all to provide support to the affected population. Cholera campaigns have been conducted in Yei and Yambio, including awareness-raising measures on domestic hygiene, and the distribution of water purification tablets and containers. Additional water kiosks and public toilets have also been built.
Results
The following results have been achieved through the development cooperation activities.
• A sector strategy on urban water supply and sanitation has been published.
• The sector investment plan has been coordinated with the water ministry and submitted to the cabinet for approval.
• An approved draft of the water law is now awaiting ratification by Parliament.
• Two water utilities have been founded, and their staff trained in operations and maintenance. The infrastructure is being managed sustainably.
• The operating model of the commercial service provider YTWSS Ltd. is now recognised by the water ministry as a model for reforms.
• Urban residents have been sensitised for hygiene measures and how to handle drinking water properly.
• Since the start of the conflict at the end of 2013, the programme has reached 15,000 schoolchildren and 500 households with short-term hygiene measures.
• Some 3,000 people now benefit from three new public toilet facilities at marketplaces in Juba.