SECO’s objective in the water sector is to improve urban water and wastewater services, thereby contributing to sustainable economic prosperity. The SECO strategy in the water sector is based on four pillars: (1) strengthening water and wastewater utilities; (2) supporting skills development; (3) improving the planning and financing of infrastructure projects; and, (4) support the creation of enabling frame conditions.

SECO has been active in the water and wastewater sector for several decades, traditionally financing infrastructure, accompanied by institutional strengthening of utilities. In recent years, while utilities remain at the heart of interventions, SECO’s focus has shifted to more systemic approaches aiming for an impact on the sector as a whole. As such, projects often include scalable, multi-city interventions and seek to address challenges in planning, financing and operation of water and wastewater services, while also supporting skills development, promoting integrity management and engaging in policy dialogue up to the national level. Where appropriate, SECO applies phased programmatic approaches and performance-based financing strategies.