Access to clean water and basic sanitation is essential for the quality of life of all human beings and, consequently, for global development. Our current portfolio acknowledges this reality, as well as the challenges and opportunities inherent in this critical sector. Throughout our work, it has become evident that addressing these challenges requires more than isolated solutions. It demands a cross-sectoral approach involving effective collaboration between public and private sector institutions.

We have been working closely with key partners, such as the DNAAS (National Directorate of Water Supply and Sanitation), and promoting dialogue with the private sector. This collaboration unveiled the complexities of the sector and the need for integrated solutions that not only meet immediate needs but also build a more efficient, inclusive, and sustainable future for all.

Navigating the Duality: Need vs Productivity

A recent event with the engagement of the private sector aimed at discussing training gaps for Water and Sanitation Technicians highlighted some of the sector’s most pressing challenges. One striking finding was the alarming figure that around 60% of water produced is not billed due to losses along pipelines and theft.

The main culprit was identified as the significant gap between technical capacity and technology advance, particularly in the control and maintenance of modern systems. With the evolution of the sector, technicians are now expected to demonstrate creativity, work autonomously or collaboratively, record information, critically analyse data, and propose innovative solutions.

Mr. Dário Amade, General Manager of AfriDev Mati, a company playing a pivotal role in Mozambique's water supply sector since 2012, emphasized the need to form more technically skilled professionals capable of handling these emerging technologies. For Dário, this not only benefits the community by ensuring continuity but also incentivises companies to invest in the sector on the long term with a wider pool of qualified technicians to meet the demands of the labour market. 

Proposed Solutions and Collective Commitment

Thanks to the active involvement of our partners, we have designed solutions that go beyond theory. One of the central proposals was to update the sector’s curriculum to include advanced technologies such as desalination, photovoltaic and automation. 

The discussion also emphasised the need to develop practical skills in areas such as loss management and photovoltaic installations. All of this framed within an approach that incorporates gender considerations and environmental safeguards, ensuring progress is inclusive and responsible.

What Now? Our Realistic Action Plan

With DNAAS in-depth knowledge of the sector and private sector representatives providing valuable insights into market demands and emerging technologies, an action plan was defined as follows:

• Focus on Priority Courses: supervision, loss management, electrical installation and photovoltaic systems, and plumbing and desalination.
• Training Strategy: Short-term programmes (1 week to 3 months), tailored to local needs and covering both public and private sectors.
• Focus Locations: Maputo and Gaza were chosen to pilot these training sessions.

Joining Forces for the Future 

This event reinforced the importance of partnerships as catalysts for transformation. By combining efforts with DNAAS, private sector, WASH training centers namely: CFPAS and FIPAG Academy, we are creating sustainable and impactful solutions that will benefit the entire ecosystem of the sector: communities, public institutions, technicians and businesses.

We are excited about the next steps and confident that, together, we can turn challenges into opportunities and build a future where access to water and sanitation is more efficient, equitable, and sustainable. If you, too, want to be part of this transformation, stay tuned to our pages and follow us on this journey.

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