UN-Water funding backs water and sanitation program in Guyana

Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), the country’s national water utility, and the United Nations in Guyana have launched a program supported by seed funding from UN-Water to strengthen national action on water and sanitation and accelerate progress toward Sustainable Development Goal 6, according to a press release by UN-Water. The initiative was announced on 06 October 2026. It will bring together national and UN expertise, evidence and partners to address Guyana’s water priorities. GWI will serve as the main national technical partner during implementation. The program aims to accelerate progress on equitable water and sanitation services.

Guyana was selected by UN-Water through a competitive process. The selection followed a joint application by GWI and the UN Country Team. The program is backed by seed funding provided by UN-Water. It builds on existing cooperation between GWI and the United Nations in Guyana. The partnership positions GWI as the lead national technical partner for implementation.

In practical terms, the initiative will improve coordination around Guyana’s water priorities. It will develop practical solutions and identify opportunities for longer-term support and investment. The program will also help strengthen equitable access to sanitation and sustainable water management. These efforts will extend to remote communities. The work combines national and UN expertise, evidence and partners.

The program is intended to support stronger water security across Guyana. It will help communities respond to challenges including changing rainfall patterns and droughts. Floods, El Niño-related impacts and sea-level rise are also among the challenges addressed. GWI and participating UN entities will contribute technical expertise, staff time, data and communications support. The joint contributions reflect a shared commitment to the program’s objectives.

The initiative aims to lay the groundwork for further technical assistance, joint programs and partnerships. It is designed to translate seed funding into longer-term engagement on water and sanitation. GWI and the UN entities in Guyana will carry the work forward during implementation. The program reinforces national efforts toward achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6. It represents a coordinated step to advance Guyana’s water and sanitation priorities.