Niger water security project advances with third Niamey plant construction

On a recent inspection visit, a high-level delegation led by Niger’s National Coordinator for the Integrated Platform for Water Security Project (PISEN), Mr. Zibo Zakara, and the World Bank’s Project Manager, Mr. Mohamed Nanzoul, toured key construction sites of Niamey’s third potable water treatment plant. The team also included representatives from Niger’s Water Heritage Society (SPEN). The visit, conducted on June 2, 2026, covered critical project areas including the water intake site, the main treatment plant, and the reservoir installation locations.

In 2017, SPEN adopted a national urban and semi-urban water management blueprint, which includes the development of Niamey’s third water treatment facility. Once operational, this plant will process 250,000 cubic meters of water daily, rolled out in three phases: an initial 100,000 m³/day capacity, followed by two 75,000 m³/day increments. The project’s primary goal is to expand potable water access across Niamey’s urban and peripheral zones. PISEN oversees project coordination, with technical and financial support from the World Bank, while SPEN serves as the lead implementing authority.

Technical teams confirmed that raw water will be channeled to a plateau where construction of the treatment plant is underway. From there, water will be directed to two 2,500 m³ reservoirs on the Yawari plateau, ensuring reliable distribution to outlying neighborhoods. According to Mr. Zakara, the first phase—providing 100,000 m³/day—will secure Niamey’s water supply through 2035. The project encompasses ten distinct construction lots, with plans for future expansions at the river treatment facility.

Mr. Zakara acknowledged earlier delays but noted the project is now accelerating, particularly at the intake site and Yawari plateau, where heavy machinery and large local workforces are deployed. « Progress is evident, especially in Lots 6 and 7, where excavations are underway and local hiring is creating meaningful employment opportunities, » he observed.

The World Bank’s Project Manager, Mr. Nanzoul, praised the project’s momentum and reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to supporting Niger’s water infrastructure development for the benefit of its people.

Project Construction Manager Haladou Laouali Amani highlighted that site mobilization, equipment installation, and preparatory studies—including topographic and geotechnical assessments—are complete. « This initiative will transform Niamey’s water access, making it one of the most significant potable water projects in terms of scale and impact. Approximately 45,000 social connections are expected upon completion, » he stated.