Jordan secures $15 million agreement with USAID to enhance water resources

AMMAN — The Ministry of Water and Irrigation and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) on Tuesday signed an agreement worth $15 million, supported by  a $4.5 million contribution  by the Jordan Water Company (Miyahuna) to provide an additional 12 million cubic metres to the national water system. 

The agreement, signed by Miyahuna CEO Mohammad Al Awran, and USAID Mission Director for Jordan Leslie Reed , is part of  a broader US government financial initiative exceeding $700 million, meant to enhance  water resources efficiency of and reduce water losses within the system, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported.

During the signing ceremony, Minister of Water and Irrigation Raed Abul Saud said that the agreement aims to provide additional water through the drilling of wells to meet immediate and medium-term needs, as an interim solution until long-term plans for the water sector are implemented. 

The project includes integrating  these wells into the national water system, ensuring an annual capacity of approximately 12 million cubic metres, he added, noting that operations will begin immediately to equip and drill these wells, with the aim of completing them within a year. 

Abul Saud expressed gratitude for the support of the United States Government, facilitated by USAID, in addressing the Kingdom's water challenges and improving the sustainability of water security.