Guyana Water Supply Technical Assistance and Rehabilitation Project

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The overall objectives of the project are to improve the quality and reliability of potable water in selected regions in Guyana and enhance the efficiency of water sector institutions. The project, together with other donor-financed projects in the sector, will: (i) initiate the process of upgrading water supply facilities; (ii) establish appropriate procedures and methods for ensuring proper system operation and maintenance (O&M) and promote the involvement of the private sector in water operations; (iii) enhance sector technical, financial and managerial skills through training; and (iv) rationalize sector organization and strengthen sector finances by instituting tariff reforms and improving cost recovery. The project consists of the following key concepts: (a) facilities rehabilitation, comprising some 45 major and 100 minor upgrading schemes nationwide, and improvements to New Amsterdam distribution systems; (b) O&M improvements, supporting a systemwide preventive maintenance program, standardization of electro-mechanical equipment and contracting out of certain support activities to the private sector on a pilot basis; (c) human resources development, enhancing manpower skills in the water sector; (d) institutional strengthening of Guyana Water Authority (GUYWA), improving the capabilites of GUYWA in management, financial and technical areas; (e) project management and evaluation, emphasizing the establishment of a Project Management Unit; and (f) future projects preparation.