The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) has approved a US$30 million Conditional Credit Line for Investment Projects (CCLIP) to support Guyana in improving its water and sanitation infrastructure. The initiative aims to strengthen the resilience, quality, and sustainability of drinking water and sewerage services provided by the national utility, Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI).
The program is set to benefit approximately 151,560 residents by enhancing access to safe and reliable water services. GWI will undergo a digital transformation, adopting modern technologies to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and boost revenue generation.
Key infrastructure investments include the construction of a new water treatment plant in Diamond, East Bank Demerara, and the installation of around 15 kilometers of transmission pipelines. These additions will help integrate the new plant into the existing water distribution network.
Efforts to reduce Non-Revenue Water will be supported through advanced leak detection and repair initiatives, along with public awareness campaigns. The program will also focus on upgrading GWI’s digital systems, integrating management information platforms, and improving metering and operational efficiency across key service areas like East Bank Demerara, East Coast Demerara, and Cummings Lodge.
This investment aligns with Guyana’s broader commitment to developing climate-resilient infrastructure and ensuring reliable access to quality water services. As part of the CCLIP, the IDB has also approved a Specific Investment Loan (ESP) of US$15.57 million to fund targeted improvements in water and sanitation systems.
The US$30 million credit line will be repaid over 25 years, with a 5.5-year grace period and interest based on the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR). It will be complemented by US$36.33 million in co-financing from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
Over the past five years, Guyana has undertaken major reforms in its water and sanitation sector, including building new treatment plants, laying transmission mains, and drilling wells across both coastal and hinterland regions. The new IDB credit line will further support these national efforts to modernize and expand access to potable water.
