The country’s persistent water infrastructure challenges are receiving long-awaited attention, with the government securing US$5.7 million in funding from the CARICOM Development Fund (CDF). The investment, announced Thursday, will support the completion of the Patience Water Supply Project in Micoud and the major rehabilitation of the Theobalds Water Treatment Plant in Castries: two critical undertakings expected to improve water access for over 45,000 residents.

CDF CEO, Rodinald Soomer, confirmed that the funding represents a significant step forward in the country’s infrastructure development.

“With this latest approval, concessional loan financing for the project increases to nearly US$2 million. Coupled with the financing for the Theobalds Water Treatment Plant, total CDF support for Saint Lucia’s water infrastructure now stands at almost US$7 million.”

The projects come at a time when climate change is placing increasing strain on outdated systems. According to WASCO CEO Zilta George-Leslie, the combination of extreme rainfall, drought, and aging facilities has severely compromised water supply across parts of the island, particularly in the north.

Said George-Leslie: “The Patience Water Treatment Plant, built in 1993 and expanded in 2007, currently faces significant challenges. Six of the ten filters are malfunctioning due to corroded components and outdated materials, leading to increased water loss and reduced treatment capacity.”

The rehabilitation of the Theobalds Water Treatment Plant in Castries is also seen as key to improving the island’s overall water resilience.

Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre underscored the urgency of the investment, highlighting the daily struggles of residents in affected communities. The prime minister made special mention of the communities of Praslin and Cap Estate, where residents have long endured water shortages.

“When you hear the pleas and cries of Jeremiah Norbert for the people of Praslin, and when you know that even our Cabinet Clerk lives in that community and joins in putting pressure on us, we feel it. The same goes for Stephenson King, who understands the pain of the people at Cap Estate. We understand it,” Pierre affirmed. “Help is on the way. It will not happen all in one year, but I can assure you, help is on the way.”

The government has committed to implementing a phased approach to water infrastructure improvements across the island, as demand continues to grow and the effects of climate variability intensify.