U.S. Strategy Needed for Water Supply Assistance to Developing Countries

Highlights

A review was conducted of water resources development activities and problems in developing countries, especially those problems associated with providing community water supplies. The United States has not developed water policies and strategies despite the fact that much of the billions of dollars in financial support for developing country water projects emanates either directly or indirectly from the United States.

Recommendations

Recommendations for Executive Action

Agency Affected	Recommendation	Status
United States International Development Cooperation Agency	The Director of the International Development Cooperation Agency should establish reasonable and attainable interim goals during the Water Decade. These goals should be established on a country-by-country basis, consistent with country surveys of water resources and needs.	Closed Please call 202/512-6100 for additional information.
United States International Development Cooperation Agency	The Director of the International Development Cooperation Agency should incorporate into loan agreements a requirement that developing countries provide funds for project maintenance.	Closed Please call 202/512-6100 for additional information.
United States International Development Cooperation Agency	The Director of the International Development Cooperation Agency should emphasize use of bilateral and multilateral funds for water development activities and projects which will have a significant impact on the rural poor.	Closed Please call 202/512-6100 for additional information.
United States International Development Cooperation Agency	The Director of the International Development Cooperation Agency should encourage external donors to provide incentives to developing countries which have demonstrated that they will maintain water supply and sanitation projects.	Closed Please call 202/512-6100 for additional information.
United States International Development Cooperation Agency	The Director of the International Development Cooperation Agency should collect and maintain information which would systematically assess the condition of existing water supply and sanitation projects and suggest a program to help those in need of rehabilitation.	Closed Please call 202/512-6100 for additional information.
United States International Development Cooperation Agency	The Director of the International Development Cooperation Agency should emphasize the need to fund programs for the institutional development and training of maintenance personnel in those countries having the most critical needs.	Closed Please call 202/512-6100 for additional information.

See All 6 Recommendations

Full Report

Full Report (82 pages)

Office of Public Affairs

Chuck Young

Managing Director

youngc1@gao.gov

(202) 512-4800

Topics

International Affairs

Developing countriesFederal aid to foreign countriesInternational relationsWater resources developmentWater supply managementWater supplySanitationInternational organizationsPotable waterIrrigation project