Partners Launch PacFresH2O to Strengthen Climate-Resilient Water Security in the Pacific
In Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea (PNG), governments and development partners officially launched the GIZ-implemented "Protecting Freshwater Resources for Increased Climate Resilience in the Pacific Islands (PacFresH2O) Project," marking a major step toward improving climate-resilient water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) systems in PNG and the Solomon Islands.
Supported by the German Government’s International Climate Initiative (IKI) through the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Climate Action, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMUKN), the 5-year programme is co-implemented by the Pacific Community (SPC), WaterAid Papua New Guinea, and Live & Learn Solomon Islands, in partnership with both governments.
Speaking at the launch, German Ambassador to Australia and the Pacific Island States Beate Grzeski highlighted the importance of inclusive and sustainable water management systems in building climate resilience across the Pacific.
GIZ Philippines and Pacific Country Director Immanuel Gebhardt emphasized that PacFresH2O goes beyond infrastructure by strengthening institutions, coordination, and long-term sustainability of climate-resilient water services.
PacFresH2O focuses on strengthening governance systems, improving coordination, supporting climate-resilient water infrastructure, and enhancing access to climate financing for sustainable WASH services. It will support priority communities in East New Britain Province in Papua New Guinea, and in Makira, Guadalcanal, and Central Province in the Solomon Islands.
It aims to link national planning with community-level action while supporting vulnerable groups, including women and people with disabilities, in addressing growing climate and water security challenges across the region.
