The Government of Switzerland continues to support the Water Sector in Tajikistan

Local news, 06.10.2023

Today, Salome Steib, Director of the Swiss Cooperation Office in Tajikistan and Fayziddin Kahhorzoda, Minister of Finance of Tajikistan have signed three key agreements worth CHF 17.5 million (around USD 20 million) for safe drinking water and sanitation as well as water resources management projects in Tajikistan. 

Salome Steib, Director of the SCO Tajikistan and Fayziddin Qahhorzoda, the Minister of Finance of Tajikistan
Salome Steib, Director of the SCO Tajikistan and Fayziddin Qahhorzoda, the Minister of Finance of Tajikistan ©SCO Tajikistan

Although Tajikistan has a lot of water resources, it is challenging to adequately manage them due to the country's rugged topography - 93% of the country is covered with high mountains. Access to safe drinking water and adequate sanitation in Tajikistan is still a pervasive problem in rural communities.

Switzerland recognizes these challenges; therefore, the water sector is one of the main priorities of Switzerland’s intervention in the country.

“Switzerland is a reliable, innovative and long-standing partner to Tajikistan. I am convinced that our projects in cooperation with the Government of Tajikistan will bring together effective approaches for identifying and addressing social, economic, and environmental concerns in water management and ultimately benefit the Tajik people”- highlighted Salome Steib, Director of the SCO in Tajikistan during the ceremony.

Three projects funded by the Government of Switzerland will increase the access to safe drinking water and sanitation in rural areas, and will strengthen the national water resources management in Tajikistan. Furthermore, the intervention supports Tajikistan's commitment to achieving SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation for All).

Since Tajikistan’s Independence more than 30 years ago, the Government of Switzerland has been supporting Tajikistan to achieve peaceful, social and economic transition and contribute to reduce poverty in the country.

Information about the projects: