Supporting vulnerable communities in Maldives to manage climate change-induced water shortages

The project aimed to provide safe freshwater access to 105,000 people across 111 islands1 in the Maldives, focusing on vulnerable communities facing significant drinking water shortages during the dry season. These shortages are exacerbated by climate-induced challenges such as variable rainfall and rising sea levels, which increase groundwater salinity. The project sought to scale up integrated water supply systems and improve groundwater quality for long-term resilience.

In terms of achievement, the project provided safe drinking water to 105,996 people across 29 islands through the 4 Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM) and 25 Rainwater Harvesting (RWH) systems. Key achievements include establishment of additional 7,780 m³ water storage in the islands, 30% reduction in water production costs through solar integration, and establishment of regulatory frameworks including the Water and Sanitation Act. The project adapted to government policy shifts from centralized to decentralized governance and COVID-19 challenges. Critical lessons emphasized the need for coordination between infrastructure projects to prevent damage, skilled operator training for expanding water networks, and flexible design adaptation to align with national strategies. Sustainability ensured through partnerships with government departments, integration of training courses into national university systems, and regulatory capacity building within the Utility Regulation Authority.

Key lessons learned include the importance of performance-based consultant contracts with enforceable penalties and fully utilizing contractual authority to address delays. In-country technical support, particularly through a Chief Technical Advisor, proved more effective than remote assistance. Limited communication outputs highlight the need for greater visibility of project achievements. Improved inter-ministry coordination can prevent cross-project issues and enhance resource use. Challenges with government financial policies suggest the need for alternative operational arrangements or additional AE support. Reassessing the PMU structure to align with ministry mandates and revising the Gender Action Plan to focus on practical, achievable activities also strengthened project delivery.

The sustainability and exit strategy is anchored in strong government partnerships and institutional integration. Key components like the Learning Management System (LMS), Geographical Information System (GIS), groundwater studies, and monitoring systems are now overseen by the Water and Sanitation Department, with technical platforms jointly maintained by the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Technology (MECCT) and National Center for Information Technology (NCIT). Educational courses have been embedded in the Maldives National University, ensuring ongoing capacity building. The Maldives Meteorological Service (MMS) and the Utility Regulation Authority (URA) have enhanced technical and regulatory capacities, while new regulations and published research support long-term policy development. Investments in upgraded RWH, backed by government co-financing and utility cost-recovery mechanisms, ensure continued service delivery. To sustain impact, the next steps for the government include securing uninterrupted water provision, clarifying operational roles between councils and utilities, and leveraging groundwater research and Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) designs to expand baseline studies and mobilize additional funding. Overall, the project has made significant strides in improving water security for vulnerable communities in the Maldives, showcasing adaptability in the face of challenges and laying the groundwork for sustainable water management practices in the future.