ACCIONA’s corporate foundation, acciona.org, has partnered with Centro Arcoíris to improve water and sanitation access for over 4,500 people in San Cristóbal, Dominican Republic. The initiative includes construction of treatment facilities and household improvements, supported by a community management model. Earlier, ACCIONA launched a rural electrification program in Elías Piña, extending its commitment to sustainable development in the region.
ACCIONA’s corporate foundation, acciona.org, has partnered with Centro Arcoíris to launch a significant initiative aimed at enhancing water and sanitation access in the San Cristóbal province of the Dominican Republic. This project will benefit over 4,500 individuals residing in the Bella Vista and Villa Penca neighborhoods of Bajos de Haina. It has been co-financed by the Spanish Agency for Development Cooperation (AECID).
The project integrates both community-level and household solutions to support local government initiatives for improving water and sanitation infrastructure. Key components include the construction of six wastewater treatment facilities for 100 households, urban redevelopment for drainage improvement, and the enhancement of drinking water pipelines for 100 homes. Furthermore, 30 houses will be provided with flushing toilets.
To ensure long-term sustainability, a participatory management model will be implemented involving a local technical committee responsible for monitoring water efficiency and quality. This collaborative effort will involve residents, the Haina Municipal Council, and the National Institute of Drinking Water and Sewerage (INAPA).
Surveys conducted prior to the project’s launch indicated that 69% of Villa Penca households lacked sufficient drinking water and 20% lacked sanitation. In Bella Vista, 28% of households reported a lack of drinking water while 19% faced sanitation issues. This project complements ongoing INAPA efforts and lays the groundwork for future enhancements in water distribution and wastewater treatment across the municipality.
Earlier this year, acciona.org commenced operations in the Dominican Republic with the Light at Home rural electrification program in Elías Piña province, benefiting 90 households by providing them with electricity through photovoltaic systems. Centro Arcoíris has a strong track record in the region, having executed over 70 projects and supporting more than 200 families in similar areas with basic sanitation and flood risk reduction measures.
The collaboration between acciona.org and Centro Arcoíris represents a vital step forward in improving water and sanitation conditions in the Bajos de Haina municipality, directly impacting the lives of over 4,500 residents. The project not only addresses immediate needs but also establishes a framework for ongoing community management and collaboration with local authorities, ensuring sustainability. Furthermore, it reflects a commitment to addressing the challenges faced by the Dominican Republic in terms of access to basic services.
Original Source: www.acciona.com
