The World Bank Group has unveiled a new global initiative tagged “Water Forward,” aimed at expanding access to safe and reliable water services for up to one billion people by the year 2030.
The programme, launched in partnership with multilateral development banks, development finance institutions, and other global stakeholders, is designed to strengthen water systems, improve resilience to climate-related shocks, and support long-term economic productivity.
According to the World Bank, the initiative is intended to align financing, policy reforms, and partnerships in order to scale up investment in water infrastructure and improve service delivery, particularly in developing countries.
The bank noted that water remains central to global development, stressing that it underpins health systems, agriculture, energy production, and employment.
“Water underpins health, food systems, energy, and an estimated 1.7 billion jobs worldwide; yet 4 billion people experience water scarcity,” the statement said.
It further explained that weak regulatory frameworks, unclear policies, and financially unstable water utilities have continued to slow progress in many countries, discouraging private investment in the sector.
Through Water Forward, the institution said it aims to support governments in building stronger and more efficient water systems capable of attracting sustainable investment, improving productivity, and safeguarding livelihoods.
The initiative would also focus on institutional reforms, strengthening governance structures, and developing projects that are financially viable and ready for investment.
So far, 14 countries have already presented national water compacts under the programme, with additional nations expected to join in the coming months.
World Bank Group President Ajay Banga said the initiative reflects coordinated action among development partners, governments, philanthropies, and private investors to accelerate access to clean and safe water globally.
He added that the World Bank Group has committed to directly supporting access to water for 400 million people by 2030, with the broader initiative expected to reach more than one billion people when combined with partner efforts.
The “Water Forward” programme is part of broader global efforts to address rising water insecurity driven by population growth, urbanisation, and climate change, including droughts and flooding that increasingly threaten communities and economies worldwide.
