Access to safe drinking water is one of the cornerstones of public health; however, more than 660 million people around the world still lack access to a dependable drinking water supply. USAID helps partner countries reach the poor and assist the underserved in gaining first-time or improved access to basic drinking water services, laying the foundation for a healthier and more water-secure future one neighborhood and community at a time.
World Water Day is observed annually on March 22 to raise awareness about the vital importance of water to everything from public health and youth education to economic development and gender equality.
Local communities in Southern Africa are facing severe water challenges regarding freshwater for drinking, sanitation, and other services. The Okavango and Limpopo river basins are key transboundary water bodies in this region, where USAID’s Resilient Waters Program operates.
View and filter USAID activities & projects with a safe drinking water focus.
Check out USAID Water's overview of safe drinking water.
The African Water Association (AfWA), formerly known as Union of African Water Suppliers (UAWS), is a professional association of establishments, enterprises and utilities operating in the areas of drinking water, sanitation and environment in Africa. AfWA has over 100 utilities members from over 40 countries across Africa
Through an initiative called 'Waste Less Arugam Bay,' sponsored by USAID, the project provides free drinking water at refill stations, recycles plastic bottles, and promotes the benefits of reducing plastic waste.
The Lebanon Water Project (LWP) is a five-year project funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) with the objective of increasing access to clean, reliable, and sustainable sources of water for Lebanese citizens. LWP is a $65-million activity that was launched in October 2015 and will conclude in September 2020.
The Sudan Infrastructure Services Project, funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), was initiated in 2007 to provide critical public infrastructure and capacity building activities in support of the 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement and the economic development of South Sudan. USAID engaged Louis Berger, as its implementing partner, to work in collaboration with the Government of South Sudan to address a full range of physical and institutional needs.
