Source - Middle East and North Africa

Jordan: National Water Strategy 2008-2022 given Royal approval

27 May 09

King Abdullah of Jordan has given the go-ahead to his country's new water strategy, which will entail the completion of a series of megaprojects to meet Jordan's water needs. The country currently produces 145 cubic metres of water per capita annually, some way below the international water poverty line of 1,000 cubic metres per capita.

Palestine: World Bank reports assesses restrictions on water development

28 Apr 09

A World Bank report blames Palestinian mismanagement and Israeli restrictions for severe water shortages in the West Bank and the Gaza. The existing problems affect not just daily supply but the development of water resources, water uses and wastewater management.

Middle East: USAID and IWA sign strategic partnership to advance water utilities

02 Apr 09

Access to clean drinking water and sanitation for the urban poor, water safety and quality management, leadership gaps and climate change are the focus of support to water utilities by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and the International Water Association (IWA).

Palestine: 6.2 million dollar agreement signed to manage wastewater

02 Apr 09

The Government of Japan, in partnership with the Palestinian Water Authority and the UNDP/Programme of Assistance to the Palestinian People signed a US$ 6.2 million agreement to launch the cross boundary wastewater management project in the occupied Palestinian territory.

Jordan: ancient wells radioactive, US study finds

04 Mar 09

Researchers from Duke University in the United States have found that ancient underground wells in water-deprived Jordan have 20 times more radiation than is considered safe for drinking.

Palestine: building of a desalination plant in Hadera contested

04 Mar 09

A recent publication in the Al-Qud newspaper in Jerusalem has triggered comments from the Palestinian Water Authority on the building of a desalination plant in Hadera, criticizing both the Israeli and Palestine authorities.

Palestine, Gaza: US$ 25 million needed to restore water and sanitation services

02 Feb 09

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) flash appeal for Gaza includes US$ 25 million to restore water and sanitation following Israel's military action. While 70% of the wells had been restored, there was still a risk of water contamination from sewage leaks.