Water Conveyance Networks in Central Asia: An SDC Project Strengthens Inhabitants’ Self-Sufficiency

In Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, the SDC project addresses water access challenges exacerbated by poverty and infrastructure decline post-independence. The Fergana Valley, shared by these countries and Kyrgyzstan, suffers from polluted water sources due to reliance on contaminated irrigation canals, affecting over 12 million people. The project empowers local communities to build, maintain, and self-manage drinking water networks, enhancing sustainable access to clean water. It involves villagers in decision-making, forming water committees for operational oversight and financial sustainability through equitable water rates. Additionally, the project emphasizes hygiene education and improving sanitation facilities in public places to combat waterborne diseases. Since its inception in 2004, the initiative has secured reliable drinking water for 150,000 residents, reducing water-related disease prevalence by at least 30%, marking significant progress towards improving public health and self-sufficiency in water management in the region.