GAZA -- FCG Finnish Consulting Group has been chosen to develop the water supply in Gaza, which will further strengthen FCG’s presence in the Palestinian territories. The project is worth around EUR 900,000 and is funded by Agence Française de Développement (AFD).
One of the biggest challenges Palestinians face is in the availability of drinking and irrigation water, particularly in rural areas. Climate change is predicted to significantly reduce rainfall in Palestine in the future. Last year alone population growth and climate change in the Palestinian territories resulted in an estimated water shortage of 271 million cubic meters. One cubic metre equals one thousand litrers.
During the five-year project, a wastewater purification plant will be built to convert the territory’s wastewater into irrigation water for agriculture. This will also improve the availability of drinking water in future, because drinking water will no longer be used in farming.
Sami Kangasharju, Head of Sustainable Development Competence Group at FCG International, says: “It’s great to be helping the people of Gaza build vital water infrastructure and, at the same time, their hope for the future. Adequate drinking and irrigation water supply is one of the most critical factors in Palestine’s future.”
As part of the project, solar panels will also be built to support the territory’s sustainable development.
FCG is bringing its project management and water supply expertise to the water purification plant project. The Palestinian Water Authority (PWA) and two local companies are implementing the project in practice. It is important for development cooperation projects to give responsibility for practical delivery to locals.
Torbjörn Öckerman, Senior Consultant at FCG, who is leading this project, says: “This five-year project is an extraordinary opportunity for us to provide much-needed results in a very tangible way in an environment under high stress. Sometimes you can make a large difference, and this is one of those times. We are supporting and building capacity with local authorities and work together with local companies. These are the key to a successful project and will ensure that the benefits last for a long time.”
The project will strengthen FCG’s presence in Palestine. FCG has extensive experience in the water supply sector in the Palestinian territories, having managed projects there since the 1990s. It has also delivered educational sector projects there.
