RAMALLAH, December 11, 2024 (WAFA) - Chairman of the Palestinian Water Authority, Minister Ziad Mimi, called for immediate actions to rehabilitate and develop Gaza's water sector, which has faced widespread destruction.
He emphasized the urgent need for an emergency support plan, in collaboration with donor partners and international organizations in the water sector, to ensure the provision of essential resources for the continued operation of water facilities.
Mimi’s remarks came during a meeting with Jean Gough, UNICEF Special Representative, Ross Tomlinson, National WASH Cluster Coordinator, and several key officials.
The meeting focused on discussing the support plan for the Gaza Strip and the mechanisms for its implementation, ensuring the provision of essential materials to rehabilitate water lines, restore reservoirs and operate desalination stations, which are key sources of safe water.
The meeting also highlighted the need to address the basic requirements for improving the water infrastructure in the West Bank.
Mimi explained that the Water Authority, in cooperation with various partners, has been working through specialized technical committees formed to study and assess immediate and long-term needs.
He also emphasized UNICEF's critical role in relief efforts and humanitarian assistance, particularly its significant contribution to facilitating the entry of fuel needed to operate vital facilities.
For her part, the UNICEF Special Representative reiterated that both the West Bank and Gaza’s water sectors require numerous development projects, particularly in light of the ongoing aggression on Gaza, which has led to the complete destruction of essential infrastructure.
She also highlighted the ongoing Israeli assaults in the West Bank, which have resulted in extensive damage to water lines in various governorates.
The meeting included the signing of UNICEF's updated support plan for the water sector in the West Bank and Gaza for 2023-2025, as well as an agreement to form a joint technical team to discuss upcoming projects and programs based on the priorities set by the Water Authority.
T.R.
