On October 6, 2026, Niger's Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine initiated the construction of a third water treatment plant in Karey Gorou, a locality about ten kilometers from Niamey on the right bank of the Niger River. The new plant aims to boost the capital city's potable water supply. With a capacity to produce 100,000 cubic meters of water per day, this project is part of Niamey's urban hydraulic master plan.
The construction project is scheduled to last 30 months and is divided into nine lots, with a total budget of 166 billion FCFA. In addition to the water treatment plant, the project includes the reinforcement and extension of potable water supply networks with a capacity of 47,200 cubic meters and a large-scale operation to provide 45,000 social connections to benefit 450,000 people.
According to the Minister of Environment, Hydraulics, and Sanitation, Colonel Maizama Abdoulaye, the launch of the project marks a significant step towards ensuring sustainable, equitable, and secure access to potable water for the population. The minister emphasized that the project addresses the challenges of accessing potable water in Niamey, which has experienced rapid demographic and urban growth, putting pressure on existing water supply infrastructure.
The Minister of Environment, Hydraulics, and Sanitation highlighted the government's commitment to investing in essential infrastructure and preparing for the future. He described the launch of the project as a symbol of a nation's determination to improve the living conditions of its population. The project is a response to the growing demand for potable water in Niamey.
Johan A. Mistiaen, the Resident Representative of the World Bank in Niger, noted that the project is a testament to the strong partnership between Niger and the World Bank in the water sector. He mentioned that the World Bank's investments in this sector exceed $800 million, approximately 468 billion FCFA. The new water treatment plant is part of the Integrated Platform for Water Security in Niger (PISEN) project.
The World Bank representative emphasized the need for all stakeholders to play their roles to ensure the successful implementation of the project and achieve sustainable results. The project aims to improve access to potable water for the population and address the challenges posed by rapid urban growth.
The third water treatment plant in Karey Gorou is expected to significantly improve the potable water supply in Niamey, enhancing the quality of life for its residents. The project is a key component of the government's efforts to address the water needs of the rapidly growing capital city.
Key points
- The new water treatment plant will have a capacity to produce 100,000 cubic meters of water per day.
- The project includes the reinforcement and extension of potable water supply networks and a large-scale operation to provide social connections.
- The World Bank has invested over $800 million in Niger's water sector.
