Visit related to the EU WOP Project: training, discussions, and practical exercises

The visit was part of the EU WOP project (Water Operators’ Partnership) that started in 2022, where we assist the Bahir Dar water utility in developing water meter management, network and leakage control, and facility management. Additionally, the project aims to improve water access for low-income families. We had the priviledge of hosting the visit to a delagtion consisting of the director, vice-chairman of the board, financial manager, deputy director, and network engineer from the Bahir Dar water utility.

Gaining valuable knowledge and sharing experiences

Previous visits have gathered valuable information and shared experiences by exploring the operations of both water utilities. During this visit, we had the opportunity to extensively showcase how HSY manages water services in our region.

The week included exchanging experiences with management and technical experts, training and guidance, as well as an introduction to leakage detection fundamentals and practical exercises.

Comprehensive Training Week (May 27-31)

Throughout the week, many experts participated in presenting our operations. The main theme of the meetings was to prepare the Bahir Dar water utility for potentially significant investments and changes compared to their current operations. Topics covered included budgeting and setting rates to correspond with costs, investment management, safety management, asset management, long-term development of staff skills, and the use of strategic indicators as management tools.

Challenges and Development of Bahir Dar Water Utility

The Bahir Dar water utility uses groundwater, which is distributed to consumers after disinfection. There is minimal water treatment, and the well capacity is insufficient. In addition to the EU-WOP project, other initiatives aim to increase the water production capacity and build the necessary water treatment to ensure water quality. Future goals include building a functioning sewer system and wastewater treatment plant in the area. Several international organizations, such as VEI from the Netherlands, the World Bank, USAID, and Japan, which also has a development cooperation project, are supporting the development of the Bahir Dar water utility.

The project’s progress has been hampered by the deteriorating security situation in the Amhara region of Ethiopia, making it challenging to organize training. With internet connections down, remote meetings and training have been impossible. Therefore, this visit was particularly important for defining a shared vision and achieving the project’s goals.

Practical leakage detection training and water supply presentations

Despite differences in the operations and conditions of HSY and the Bahir Dar water utility, there are many similarities, especially in leakage management. HSY’s responsibilities in the project include constructing a district metering area and supporting the acquisition and training of leakage detection equipment.

During the visit, our guests had the opportunity to practice leakage detection. Leakage management is still new in Bahir Dar, with no established practices. This visit was very beneficial, as our guests could practice using leakage detection equipment.

Additionally, we presented our operations, strategy, and strategic goals at a general level. We also reviewed water supply operations in our environment, emphasizing the importance of openness and transparency, especially towards municipalities and residents.

Next Steps for Bahir Dar Water Utility

The next steps for the Bahir Dar water utility involve preparing the business plan and budgeting. The construction of the district metering area is nearing completion, with measurements set to begin in June. During the visit, the necessary leakage detection equipment was decided upon, which will be sent to Ethiopia. The final year of the three-year project is underway, and in the coming months, the focus will be on completing the project in the project timeline.