In late 2016, as part of planning activities carried out under the WATER SUM project’s WaSe component, the Regional Environmental Center for Central and Eastern Europe (REC) provided grants to assist the local-level implementation of identified priority activities aimed at improving local water security and sustainable development planning in targeted communities in Jordan and Tunisia.

Following the successful development of local water security action plans (LWSAPs) by local planning teams, and their endorsement by relevant authorities, eight pilot project proposals were approved for the available grants. The total amount available was EUR 360,000 (approx. EUR 45,000 per partner municipality/delegation), with at least 50 percent of total project costs covered through the contribution of in-kind support.

Implementation of the successful pilot project proposals began in early 2017 in four municipalities in Jordan (Ajloun, Al-Karak, Al Salt, Jerash) and four delegations in Tunisia (Bir Mcherga, Matmata, Nefza, Sidi Ali Ben Aoun). In September, WATER SUM project team members made field visits to each of the eight pilot sites to assess the progress of project implementation. This article summarises the findings of field visits in Jordan.

Field visit to the Municipality of Al-Karak (September 17)

Present situation

All major construction works envisaged in the project proposal have been completed. Two reservoirs—consisting of a main chamber and a sedimentation chamber—have been built.  The reservoirs are the WATER SUM project’s contribution to a large-scale construction works to establish a new, large park. Work on the rest of the complex will continue in the period ahead, which, according to the latest estimates, will be completed within six months.

Field visit to the Municipality of Al Salt (September 17)

Present situation

All major construction works have been completed so far, including a big reservoir consisting of three separate chambers. Water pumps have been bought and will be installed in the coming weeks. The local coordinator has confirmed that a general cleaning of the entire park area will be carried out, as well.

Field visit to the Municipality of Ajloun (September 18)

Present situation

Major construction works envisaged in the project proposal are currently in progress on site. The local coordinator and engineer in charge of the works have proposed October 30 as the new deadline. The final output will be a four-chamber reservoir that will serve as part of a municipal complex dedicated to educational and public activities.

Field visit to the Delegation of Jerash (September 18)

Present situation

All major construction works envisaged in the project proposal are were near completion by end-September, according to the local coordinator and field engineer. One reservoir for storing collected rainwater has already been built. The reservoir is the WATER SUM project’s contribution to a large-scale construction works to establish a new, large park in the city centre. According to the latest estimates, the entire complex will be completed quite soon.