World Water Day marked with focus on rationalising consumption, preservation

AMMAN — The Ministry of Water and Irrigation on Monday celebrated World Water Day, annually marked on March 22, by emphasising the importance of rationalising consumption and preserving water.

Minister of Water and Irrigation Mohammad Najjar said that through joining the world in celebrating World Water Day in 2021 under the theme “valuing water”, Jordan realises the challenges that it faces as a country suffering from water scarcity, according to a Water Ministry statement.

He highlighted the directives of His Majesty King Abdullah to improve the living conditions of people and provide them with water characterised by the highest quality standards.

Najjar added that the ministry’s priorities revolve around preserving and protecting all resources, limiting water waste, promoting a culture of rationalisation of consumption, and using all modern and advanced technologies in various fields to ensure effective and sustainable use, most notably in the agricultural and industrial sectors.

The ministry also awarded a number of winners in the Best Image of Water Competition, in partnership with the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ).

During the ceremony, Secretary General of the Water Authority of Jordan Ahmad Oleimat said that the critical water situation in Jordan calls for mobilising all efforts to “benefit from every drop of water”, especially in light of the continuing repercussions of the coronavirus pandemic.

He linked the value of water security to achieving food security.

Oleimat indicated that Jordan has been able to proceed with “a clear strategy and water policies that have achieved tangible success” in dealing with water challenges, stressing the ministry’s intention, through various institutions to launch an intensive media campaign to raise awareness of saving water.

Distributing awards to the winners, the representative of the Minister of Water and Irrigation thanked all international donors and agencies, which contribute to the development of the water sector in Jordan.