On March 12, the U.S. Agency for International Development and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) announced a partnership to promote investment and financing in the water sector across sub-Saharan Africa. The partnership seeks to galvanize private investment and financing and strengthen institutional capacity in Africa to develop and sustain water programs. USAID and JICA are exploring short-term opportunities for joint collaboration in African countries that may lead to long-term investment.

“The partnership represents an important milestone in USAID-JICA relations,” said USAID Deputy Administrator Donald Steinberg. “USAID’s unique experience in water and sanitation will complement JICA’s commitment to create a multi-million dollar Africa Water Investment Fund.”

The statement of intent signed by the two development agencies establishes principles of cooperation for the continent-wide effort.

“JICA and USAID share a commitment to improving access to sustainable and affordable water services in Africa,” said Mr. Shigeru Kiyama, JICA Senior Special Advisor. “JICA is making a commitment to increased equity investment and public-private partnerships in Africa’s water sector.”

The partnership builds on the existing relationship between USAID and JICA to stimulate private investment and institutional reform in the water sector, including joint work in the Philippines and Vietnam.