Water Forward: A Plan to Give a Billion People Clean Water

The World Bank has joined forces with other major lenders to launch Water Forward, an ambitious effort aimed at providing safe water to one billion people within the next four years.

Why Water Matters

• Essential for every economy: Experts warn that by the end of this decade, global water demand could outstrip supply by 40%.
• Climate challenges: Droughts and floods are intensifying, impacting both urban centers and rural communities.

The Core Vision

• Treat water as a valuable resource, not just a service.
  Governments are encouraged to recognize its strategic importance.
• Mixed financing model: Combines private investment, charitable contributions, and public funds.

Implementation Strategy

Global Rollout

• 14 countries across Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia will host initial projects.
• The European Investment Bank and the Asian Development Bank are key partners.

Goals & Milestones

• By 2030: Secure water for 400 million people through the World Bank alone.
• With partners: Aim to reach over one billion people worldwide.