Between 2005 and 2018, GRET supported the implementation of small drinking water networks in large rural villages and emerging towns (with 2,000 to 5,000 inhabitants). Located in the provinces of Vientiane, Bolikhamxay and Sayabouri, these agglomerations do not have appropriate drinking water infrastructure. Inhabitants have been using rudimentary supply systems delivering contaminated water.

The Mirep programme mobilised local entrepreneurs within a contractual framework to co-fund, construct and manage water services. The programme provided:

• support to public authorities for preparation and monitoring of delegation contracts,
• technical assistance to engineering firms to design water and sanitation suited to the socio-economic conditions in these semi-urban zones,
• financial support in the form of provincial investment funds (OBA grants) and meso-finance for delegated entrepreneurs (with a partial guarantee fund).

In addition, the programme is funding the implementation of a sanitation fund for inhabitants in the large villages concerned, in order to install latrines and a wastewater evacuation system.

Capitalisation on this programme began in early 2019 and findings will be presented in January 2020.

Budget managed by GRET: 2,250,000 euros