World Water Day: Hinterland water access jumps to over 90%

…water investments ease burden on women, girls in remote communities

As Guyana marks World Water Day2026 themed “Water and Gender” officials are highlighting major progress in expanding safe water access while drawing attention to the persistent inequalities that continue to affect women and girls, particularly in the hinterland and riverine communities. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), Shaik Baksh, in his message to the nation said access to safe and reliable water goes far beyond basic service delivery, describing it as a powerful driver of social and economic equality. He noted that significant investments in the sector are already transforming lives across the country, especially women and girls who are have historically carried the burden of water collection in remote communities. Baksh revealed that Guyana has now achieved 98.6 per cent national water access, with the hinterland and riverine areas seeing some of the most dramatic improvements, rising from 46 per cent coverage just a few years ago to 94 per cent today. “We are nearing our ambitious goal of 90 per cent treated water coverage on the coastland. The commissioning of several large-scale treatment plants including those at New Cummings Lodge, Wales, Caledonia, Bartica and Bachelor’s Adventure is transforming the daily lives of over 200,000 residents,” he said. Baksh added that Guyana’s 2026–2030 strategic direction will focus heavily on modernisation, including digital transformation through smart metering and advanced leak detection systems to reduce water losses and improve efficiency. Plans are also advancing for a new wastewater treatment facility in Georgetown to strengthen sanitation and public health outcomes. “Our focus is now shifting toward the 2026-2030 Strategic Plan. This roadmap emphasises not only infrastructure but digital transformation of the utility. By implementing smart metering and advanced leak detection, we are reducing “Non-Revenue Water” and ensuring that our systems are modern, accountable, and efficient,” Baksh added.

Access to safe water and sanitation
Meanwhile, Public Utilities and Aviation Minister Deodat Indar, in his message underscored that water scarcity continues to disproportionately affect women and girls, reinforcing the importance of this year’s global theme. He stressed that in many communities, women remain the primary managers of the household water resources, making equitable access not only a matter of social justice but also economic empowerment and national development. The Minister reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6), which targets universal access to safe water and sanitation by 2030. He pointed to the ongoing Coastal Water Treatment Programme, which continues to expand treatment plants, upgrade systems and strengthen transmission networks nationwide. Strategic partnerships with international agencies such as the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) are also supporting major development, including Diamind Surface Water Treatment Plan, aimed at improving climate resilience and securing long-term water supply. The Minister also emphasised that targeted investments in sustainable water systems for Indigenous communities would reduce the time women spend fetching water while increasing opportunities for education and economic participation. He further noted that hinterland water access now stands at 91 per cent, with consistent local investment continuing to prioritise reliable service expansion to every community. He also cautioned that while Government remains committed to delivering world-class water infrastructure directly to households, sustainability depends on shared responsibility.
“As we reflect on this year’s theme, we recognise that women are not just beneficiaries of water services, but also leaders in the sector. Within GWI and the Ministry, we see women serving as engineers, hydrologists and administrators who are driving our mandate. Water is a finite and precious resource. While our Government remains committed to bringing world-class water infrastructure directly to your homes, this progress requires a partnership with every citizen” he said. Both officials stressed that beyond infrastructure, the future of Guyana’s water security depends on collective stewardship.
“I urge every citizen to play their part in conservation. Protecting our water sources and using treated water responsibly ensures that this legacy remains for the generations to come. Together, we are building a Guyana where every drop of water supports a future of prosperity, dignity, and equality for all,” the Minister said, extending World Water Day 2026 greetings to the nation.