CARIBBEAN-Guyana urges Caribbean countries to collaborate more on after-development

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GEORGETOWN, Guyana, CMC – Prime Minister Mark Phillip says the five-day annual Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association (CWWA) Conference and Exhibition is a foundation for achieving climate resilience and enhancing water security in the Caribbean region.

GEORGETOWN, Guyana, CMC – Prime Minister Mark Phillip says the five-day annual Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association (CWWA) Conference and Exhibition is a foundation for achieving climate resilience and enhancing water security in the Caribbean region.

Addressing the opening ceremony of the conference on Monday night that is being held under the theme “Accelerating Change in the Water, Wastewater, and Solid Waste Sectors,” Phillip noted that the event comes at a time when the Caribbean is facing the El Nino weather pattern, which is threatening water security and food supply.

He said, as a result, it was important for the region’s private and public sectors to collaborate more to tackle the challenges ahead and ensure a sustainable and prosperous future for future generations.

“By integrating climate resilience into our water strategies and policies, we can safeguard our communities, ecosystems, and the future of our planet. Only through concerted and sustainable efforts can we truly make a difference, ensuring a more secure and resilient future for all.

“I believe this conference can lay the foundation for creating a regional platform for the Caribbean nations to exchange information and best practices in tackling water challenges and enhancing water security and sustainability,” Phillips told the estimated 500 delegates and exhibitors participating in the conference.

He said that regional governments must commit to investing in modern water infrastructure and technology, which includes expanding water treatment facilities, pipelines, and distribution systems to minimize losses.

“It also involves incorporating smart monitoring and management systems that can enhance efficiency and help in the early detection of water-related issues. In addition, sustainable practices like rainwater harvesting and wastewater recycling should be encouraged to reduce the strain on freshwater resources,” he said, noting that public awareness and information are integral to promoting water conservation.

“Communities must understand the value of water and the impacts of wasteful practices. Public campaigns and educational programs can foster a culture of water conservation. “Encouraging the adoption of water-saving technologies such as low flow fixtures and efficient irrigation systems can significantly reduce water consumption,” he said.

Minister of Housing and Water Collin Croal acknowledged that although the issue is complex, the region has the technology, knowledge, and determination to address the interconnected challenges.

He said Guyana is committed to ensuring every citizen can access safe and secure water resources and investing in advanced water structures to aid water security.

Croal also said that there must be improved monitoring, data sharing, and assessments of water resources and accompanying investments to address the water deficiency caused by the impacts of climate change.

Minister within the Housing and Water Ministry, Susan Rodrigues, said that Guyana’s expanded Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS2030) addresses integrated water resource management, which also aims to reduce poverty and gender inequality.

The Guyana government is hosting the CWWA in collaboration with Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI).

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