A high-level delegation, including Zibo Zakara, National Coordinator of the Integrated Platform for Water Security in Niger (PISEN), Mohamed Nanzoul, Project Manager at the World Bank, and representatives from the Niger Water Asset Management Company (SPEN), inspected key construction sites on Tuesday, June 2, 2026. The visit covered the water intake point, the treatment plant itself, and the future water reservoir locations as part of the third potable water treatment and production facility in Niamey.

Expanding Niamey’s water supply capacity

The project aligns with the SPEN’s 2017 Urban and Semi-Urban Hydraulic Master Plan, which identified the need for additional potable water infrastructure. The third Niamey treatment plant will ultimately deliver 250,000 cubic meters of water per day, rolled out in three phases: an initial 100,000 m³/day phase followed by two 75,000 m³/day expansions. The goal is to enhance access to clean drinking water in both central and peripheral urban zones of the capital. PISEN oversees project coordination, with support from the World Bank, while SPEN serves as the lead implementing agency.

The raw water intake infrastructure will channel untreated water to the processing plant on the Yawari plateau. Two 2,500 m³ reservoirs are also under construction to store processed water before distribution to surrounding neighborhoods.

Phased rollout to secure 2035 water demand

Zibo Zakara confirmed that the first phase of 100,000 m³/day will meet Niamey’s water needs through 2035. The project encompasses ten distinct work packages, with additional expansions planned for the river treatment plant in future phases.

He acknowledged earlier delays but noted significant progress in recent months, particularly in the water intake and Yawari plateau zones. “Work is now advancing rapidly,” he said. “We observe active excavation at sites 6 and 7, with contractors mobilizing heavy machinery and employing a high density of local labor through subcontracting arrangements. This initiative is generating valuable employment opportunities for nearby communities.”

World Bank praises progress as local impacts multiply

Mohamed Nanzoul of the World Bank praised the project’s momentum and reaffirmed continued financial and technical support to ensure sustainable benefits for Niger’s population.

Transforming Niamey’s water access landscape

Haladou Laouali Amani, Project Manager for the third plant, reported that preparatory activities—including site mobilization, topographic surveys, and geotechnical studies—are complete. Upon completion, the facility will introduce approximately 45,000 new social water connections, representing a major leap in potable water accessibility for residents.

Reporting by field teams in Niamey