The Middle East and North Africa has less than 2% of the world’s renewable water supply. In fact, it is the world’s driest region, threatening sustainable agriculture, hydration and sanitation.

The American people, through USAID, have been investing in the water sector across the Middle East to improve access to clean water, reduce water losses, facilitate sustainable use of limited resources and improve access to sanitation.

Egypt

2.2 Million People

Since 2008, USAID invested in water systems and wastewater treatment plants, helping 2.2 million people gain access to clean water and sanitation.

850 Kilometers of Water Pipelines

Since 2012, USAID funded construction of 850+ kilometers of pipelines that serve 1.8+ million people in rural areas –many of whom received access to drinking water and sanitation for the first time.

Capacity Building

USAID supported billing and operation systems to strengthen and build the capacity of institutions.

Jordan

10% of Water Resources

USAID built the As-Samra Wastewater Treatment Plant, which provides more than 10% of Jordan’s entire water resources.

238,000 People

USAID rehabilitated the Sumaya and Jaber pump stations which serve 238,000 residents in the north.

119,000 People

USAID is expanding the East Jerash Wastewater Treatment Plant, which will nearly triple its capacity and provide services for up to 119,000 people for decades to come.

$700+ Million

Since 2000, USAID invested $700+ million to support Jordan’s water sector.

Lebanon

Bill Collections Increased to 33%

USAID helped increase the water bills collection rate at the Bekaa Water Establishment from 17% to 33%.

1 Demonstration Wetland

USAID built 3 wastewater treatment plants serving 20,000+ people in 8 municipalities and 1 demonstration wetland that naturally treated 20% of the Litani River water flow.

125,000 People

USAID rehabilitated 3 potable pump stations in the south of Lebanon and improved regular access supply to 125,000 people.

500,000+ People

500,000+ people benefited from improved water quality and availability.

West Bank & Gaza

1+ Million People

USAID provided improved access to clean water for 1+ million people.

$300+ Million

Since 2000, USAID invested $300+ million on water and wastewater projects.

45 Water Facilities

USAID drilled or rehabilitated 17 wells, constructed or rehabilitated 28 water reservoirs and installed ~900 kilometers of water pipelines.

~140,000 People

USAID connected ~140,000 people to running water in their homes for the first time.

Morocco

Contamination Prevention

USAID helped rehabilitate the retaining walls of a community’s water reservoir to protect against contamination of the drinking water supply.

336 Heads of Households

USAID provided information to 336 heads of households on sanitation and hygiene best practices.

Irrigation Advice

USAID piloted a Short Message Service (SMS based service) that sends irrigation advice directly to Moroccan farmers’ cell phones to help them optimize their use of agricultural water.