Water Supply Coverage Showing Steady Growth, Says Minister

Addis Ababa June 12/2018 Rural water supply coverage in Ethiopia has increased from 59 to 85 percent and 57 to 73 percent in urban areas during the last five years, according to Water, Irrigation and Electricity. Speaking at the 9th National WASH and Water Resources Management (WRM) Multi Stakeholder Forum today, Water, Irrigation and Electricity Minister Sileshi Bekele said the country has planned to raise access to potable water to 83 percent at the end of the GTP II. According to him, drinking water for all, restoring water related eco systems, improving water use efficiency, sanitation and hygiene for all, ending water borne diseases and sound management of water to reduce release into water are some of the goals to be achieved during same period. Health State Minister Kebede Worku said on his part working cooperatively with the private sector, civil society, and other relevant sectors and organizations play important role in ensuring sustainable water supply and sanitation services. Co-Chair of Water Sector Working Group at UNICEF, Gellian Melesoupo said improving access to water sanitation programs for schools and health sectors as well as the economically and financially the poorest and most marginalized communities are the priority areas of the UN agency. The 9th National WASH and Water Resources Management (WRM) Multi Stakeholder Forum is aimed at providing adequate, safe, resilient and sustainable wash services to the semi-arid and arid areas of Ethiopia and satisfying water supply requirements for livestock, agro-industries and others. Over 300 participants, including national, regional and local government officials, UN agency representatives, development partners, civil society, private sector and academia are attending the two-day event.