OVERVIEW
Creating a Sustainable and Resilient Water Future
All Caribbean countries are surrounded by or have coastlines along the vast Caribbean Sea or the mighty Atlantic Ocean. Many also boast large rivers and lakes, like the Essequibo River in Guyana and the Macal River in Belize. However, even with proxmity to these sources, water security remains a concern for the Region.
Recent data indicates that the Caribbean ranks among the most water-stressed regions in the world. In 2020, it was reported that only 43% of Haiti's rural population had access to basic drinking water, and thousands are still impacted today. Trinidad experienced its worst drought in recent history in early 2024, while St. Vincent and the Grenadines resorted to water rationing as of May 2024 as streams, rivers, and springs ran empty when its dry season hit hard.
Transforming Lives through Water Security
Challenges for Caribbean Water Systems
Inadequate investment in infrastructure has resulted in aging pipelines and related equipment, leading to high levels of leaks and water losses, causing inefficient operations and high tariff levels. Also, Caribbean islands frequently see tropical storms and hurricanes that do hundreds of millions of dollars in damage to infrastructure, including water systems.
Some recent examples include:
“It's absolutely critical that Caribbean nations come together to prioritise water security. Water is the backbone of our daily lives, our economies, and our ecosystems. Without a coordinated effort to manage and protect this vital resource, the very future of our Region is at stake. Let's not wait for a larger crisis to force our hand. It's time for action to ensure every country has the water it needs to thrive,” William Ashby, CDB’s Division Chief (Ag), Economic Infrastructure implored.
Meeting the needs, One drop at a time
The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) has been actively addressing these challenges and, through the Special Development Fund (SDF), has played a vital role in improving water availability, accessibility, and quality across the Region. By investing in critical infrastructure, championing conservation, and fortifying communities against climate impacts, the SDF is creating a more sustainable and resilient water future. Here's how we’re meeting the needs, one drop at a time:
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Infrastructure Development - the SDF supports projects that bring water to those who need it most. These projects have included the construction of pipelines, reservoirs, and treatment facilities that ensure reliable water access, especially in rural areas. |
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Water Conservation and Management - through initiatives like rainwater harvesting and water recycling, the SDF promotes smart water use. These efforts are crucial in stretching the Caribbean's limited freshwater resources further. |
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Building Climate Resilience - as climate change threatens water security, the SDF steps up with strategies to boost storage, strengthen flood defences, and mitigate the effects of drought, making sure communities can weather any storm. |
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Capacity Building and Institutional Strengthening - through training and technical support, the SDF empowers water utilities, government agencies, and other stakeholders involved in water management. |
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Empowering Communities - true change starts from the ground up. With this in mind, the SDF involves communities in the water conversation, teaching conservation and hygiene practices, and encouraging active participation in water governance. |
