Niger water security boosted by new potable water plant in Niamey

Joint PISEN-World Bank delegation inspects Niamey’s third water treatment plant

A high-level delegation, including Mr. Zibo Zakara (National Coordinator of the Integrated Platform for Water Security in Niger – PISEN), Mr. Mohamed Nanzoul (World Bank Project Manager), and officials from Niger’s Water Asset Company (SPEN), conducted an on-site inspection on June 2, 2026. The visit covered key construction sites for Niamey’s third potable water treatment facility, including the raw water intake, the main treatment plant, and the reservoir installation area.

Water supply expansion to meet Niamey’s growing demand

In 2017, SPEN adopted an urban and semi-urban water infrastructure master plan that includes the construction of this third treatment plant. Once operational, the facility will deliver 250,000 cubic meters of clean water daily, delivered in three phases: an initial 100,000 m³ capacity, followed by two 75,000 m³ expansions. The goal is to enhance potable water access across Niamey’s urban and peripheral zones. PISEN oversees project coordination, with financial and technical support from the World Bank, while SPEN serves as the project owner.

Key infrastructure milestones underway

The raw water intake site will channel untreated water to a plateau where the treatment plant is under construction. Two reservoirs, each with a 2,500 m³ capacity, are planned for the Yawari plateau. These will ensure steady water distribution to outlying neighborhoods. Technicians confirmed that the first phase (100,000 m³/day) will secure Niamey’s water supply until 2035. The project comprises ten distinct work packages, with additional expansions already envisioned for the river-based treatment infrastructure.

Mr. Zakara acknowledged earlier delays but noted significant progress: “Excavation work is now fully underway, particularly in lots six and seven. Heavy machinery is active, and local labor is heavily engaged through subcontracting and direct employment, ensuring community benefits.”

World Bank reaffirms commitment to Niger’s water security

Mr. Nanzoul praised the project’s momentum, stating, “The World Bank remains steadfast in supporting Niger’s government to improve living standards through sustainable water solutions.”

The project’s construction lead, Mr. Haladou Laouali Amani, highlighted completed preparatory stages: “Site mobilization, equipment installation, and critical studies—including topography and geotechnical surveys—are finalized. Once complete, this plant will revolutionize potable water access in Niamey, introducing roughly 45,000 social connections and marking a historic milestone in the city’s infrastructure development.”

Reporting by field teams.