The Delta Government has paid N300 million counterpart fund to the European Union-sponsored water and sanitation scheme.
Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa made the disclosure when he received a delegation from the EU and the Ministry of Budget and National Planning led by Mr Albert Achten in Asaba.
Okowa said that another N104 million would be paid to complete the payment which was a condition for the projects to be executed in the state.
He commended the EU for its assistance, adding that the state government needed to pay the counterpart fund to enable the people to benefit from the water and sanitation schemes.
The governor, however, said that sustainability plans must be included in the design of the projects to ensure that such projects stand the test of time.
He decried situations where basic infrastructures provided by government were neglected because sustainable plans were not put in place.
The governor noted that with the tough economic situation in the country that it was important for facilities to be maintained and protected by the users.
He pledged his administration’s commitment to partner with individuals, corporate organisations and governments for the development of the state.
“I am glad that you are including the water consumers association in the execution of your water scheme. This will create awareness and sustainability at the rural areas and also help to protect, maintain and sustain it.
“Also, it will enable the consumers to take ownership of the scheme rather than think that government must provide infrastructures, maintain and sustain them.
“It is important that we consider sustainability of projects before providing infrastructures so that they can last and achieve the desired objectives,’’ Okowa said.
Okowa said that government would partner with other private sector and agencies in the provision of water and clean environment to reduce the health challenges of the people.
Earlier, Achten commended the state for being among the few states in the country to pay the counterpart fund.
He said that Delta government could increase the counterpart fund, adding that the state would get 70 per cent of whatever amount it contributed.
Achten said that the money earmarked for water and sanitation, provided plans for the sustainability of the projects. (NAN)
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