Access to water is crucial. For riverine communities, in particular, access to waterways is vital for every aspect of life, from food security to trade and navigation. With 10 river basins with a combined surface water potential of 1,000 cubic kilometers, Myanmar’s waterways are a lifeline for the communities that rely on them. At the same time, they are attractive to investors due to their huge combined 100-gigawatt hydropower potential, the region’s highest.
Foreign aid agencies are knocking on the door of Myanmar’s government, industries and community organizations. The recent surge in development aid pouring into Myanmar saw a nearly 800 percent increase in 2013 from 2012, according to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. Companies are also queuing up to invest; many of which are interested in developing Myanmar’s water resources.
International organizations want to help Myanmar eradicate poverty; and the private sector wants to build industry that will develop the economy and connect the country to the region. With limited policy and regulation, how can the private and public sectors work together better to help secure the investments Myanmar needs develop its waterways, and in doing so, eradicate poverty and set new standards? (Courtesy of devex.com)
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