Water is a fundamental resource that plays a vital role in sustaining life and fueling economic growth. Ethiopia, as a rapidly developing nation, recognizes the vital role of water supply in driving economic growth. The government has prioritized the expansion and improvement of water and sanitation infrastructure across the country. Access to clean water is essential for agriculture, industry, and human consumption. By investing in water development projects, such as the one in Dire Dawa, Ethiopia aims to enhance productivity, attract investments, and improve the overall standard of living.
The Dire Dawa City Administration, through its water and sewerage authority, is taking significant strides to address the rising water demand. The ambitious project, funded by the City Administration, is set to be completed next year. Its primary objectives include improving and expanding water and sanitation infrastructure throughout the city. The project encompasses various aspects, such as the construction of new water storage reservoirs, the expansion of distribution networks, and the implementation of advanced technologies for efficient water management.
Approached by the Ethiopian Press Agency (EPA), Authority’s Water Supply and Distribution Directorate Director Eng. Remedan Musa said that the ambitious project, which is funded by the City Administration and expected to be completed next year aims to improve and expand water and sanitation infrastructure across the city.
Ethiopia, a country known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, is also working hard in order to provide access to clean water and adequate sanitation facilities to its growing population. The Dire Dawa water development project is part of a wider effort to address this issue and harness the economic benefits associated with a reliable water supply.
“Access to clean water is a prerequisite for economic development. It enables communities to lead healthier lives, reduces the incidence of water-borne diseases, and increases productivity. With improved water and sanitation infrastructure, Dire Dawa can attract more businesses and investments, creating a favorable environment for economic growth. The availability of clean water is not only important for individuals but also crucial for industries, such as the free trade area, industrial park, and dry port surroundings, which rely on a steady and sufficient water supply to operate efficiently,” Remedan said.
Noting that the project would revolutionize the water and sanitation sector in Dire Dawa, he noted that the project’s significant budget indicates the seriousness of the authority’s mission to ensure clean water access and proper sanitation facilities for all residents.
The development project encompasses various aspects, including the construction of a new water storage reservoir, the expansion of distribution networks, and the implementation of advanced technologies for efficient water management, Remedan added.
The completion of the water development project will result in increased capacity to meet the growing demand for clean water. With a monthly water supply capacity of one million cubic meters, the Authority will be able to provide uninterrupted services to approximately 50,000 customers, benefiting around 300,000 individuals. This reliable water supply will not only enhance the quality of life for the residents but also attract more investors and businesses to the region, stimulating economic growth and job creation, he noted.
Moreover, the economic benefits of this project are multifaceted. Firstly, it will meet the growing demand for clean water in the free trade area, industrial park, and dry port surroundings. These areas are vital economic hubs that attract local and international businesses, create job opportunities and stimulate economic growth. A reliable water supply will ensure the smooth functioning of these industries and contribute to their expansion.
Secondly, the project will strengthen Dire Dawa’s capacity to provide uninterrupted water services throughout the city. This reliability is crucial for attracting investments in various sectors, as potential investors seek locations with robust infrastructure. Adequate water supply and sanitation facilities will contribute to the overall business environment, making Dire Dawa an attractive destination for entrepreneurs and companies, he noted.
Moreover, improved access to clean water and proper sanitation will have a positive impact on public health. Waterborne diseases and poor sanitation conditions can hinder economic development by causing illness and reducing productivity. The Dire Dawa project aims to mitigate these challenges, leading to better health outcomes, increased workforce productivity, and a healthier population overall.
Dire Dawa, with its strategic location and the presence of the free trade area, is a hub for economic activities. As to him, the completion of the water development project will significantly contribute to the city’s economic growth and overall prosperity. The project’s budget of 1.6 billion Birr underscores the seriousness of the City Administration’s mission to ensure clean water access and proper sanitation facilities for all residents.
The project further encompasses various aspects, including the construction of new water storage reservoirs, the expansion of distribution networks, and the implementation of advanced technologies for efficient water management. These measures will strengthen the Authority’s ability to provide uninterrupted services throughout the city and meet the increasing water demand.
Additionally, the collaboration between the City Administration and international partners reflects the recognition of the authority’s efforts to improve water and sanitation services and its commitment to sustainable development. Such recognition not only boosts the city’s image but also attracts potential investors who value sustainable practices and social responsibility. The availability of a reliable water supply and proper sanitation facilities will enhance public health, improve living conditions, and foster economic growth in Dire Dawa.
These measures will enhance the authority’s capacity to meet the growing demand for clean water and strengthen its ability to provide uninterrupted services across the city, he stressed. The authority has gained access to technical expertise and financial resources necessary for implementing large-scale projects from city administration, he expressed.
According to him, the collaboration reflects the international community’s recognition of the authority’s efforts to improve water and sanitation services and its commitment to sustainable development.
Remedan expressed his gratitude to the City Administration for its support and highlighted the water and sanitation project’s potential to improve public health, enhance economic growth, and residents of the city.
All in all, the City’s water development project represents a significant step forward in addressing the water and sanitation needs of its growing population. By ensuring access to clean water and improving sanitation infrastructure, the project will have far-reaching economic benefits. It will attract investments, stimulate business growth, and create employment opportunities in the region. Moreover, the authority’s commitment to environmental sustainability and collaboration with international partners highlight its dedication to both present and future generations.
The economic benefits of this project extend beyond Dire Dawa. Ethiopia, as a whole, recognizes the importance of water supply for economic growth and sustainable development. The completion of this venture will serve as a model for effective water and sanitation management, setting an example for other states within the country. Moreover, it will contribute to the overall development and well-being of the city and its people, attracting investments, improving public health, and enhancing economic growth.
With the completion of this ambitious venture, the Dire Dawa City Administration aims to become a model for effective water and sanitation management, setting an example for other states and contributing to the overall development and well-being of the city and its people. The project’s success will not only transform the lives of the residents but also positions Dire Dawa as an attractive destination for investors seeking sustainable growth opportunities.
As the Dire Dawa City Administration undertakes this groundbreaking water development project, it calls upon investors and stakeholders to collaborate in capacity building, technology transfer, input supply, sanitation, and financial support activities. By working together, they can ensure the realization of a prosperous and sustainable future for Dire Dawa, where access to clean water and sanitation facilities drives economic growth and improves the quality of life for all, he added.
BY HIZKEL HAILU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD WEDNESDAY 21 FEBRUARY 2024
