Jordan Water Management Initiative (WMI) Annual Performance Report FY 2019 (October 1, 2018-September 30, 2019)/Quarterly Progress Report No. 14 - Q4 FY19 (July 1-September 30, 2019)

Component 1: Water Supply Systems reported improved key performance indicators (KPIs) in Zarqa, with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Action Plan to Reduce Water Sector Losses supported. Yarmouk's financial performance and Ma'an's operational performance also improved. In Component 2: Water Conservation and Demand Management, utility demand-side management was strengthened, and behavior change communication was supported. Component 3: Water Sector Governance saw progress in water sector policy support, utility assignment agreements development, and divestment of irrigation management to water user associations. An independent regulator was also developed and supported. Component 4: Protection of Water Supply reported the development of a groundwater management framework, strengthened wastewater treatment performance and compliance, improved water quality management, and enhanced water resources management. The initiative also supported the development of a water sector strategic communications plan. The WMI's accomplishments during the previous reporting periods (Q11-Q13) included improvements in Zarqa water administration, support for the IMF Action Plan, and enhancements in Yarmouk's financial performance and Ma'an's operational performance. In Component 2, utility demand-side management was strengthened, and behavior change communication was supported. Component 3 saw progress in water sector policy support, utility assignment agreements development, and divestment of irrigation management to water user associations. For the next quarter, the WMI plans to continue improving Zarqa's KPIs, supporting the IMF Action Plan, and enhancing Yarmouk's financial and customer service performance. In Component 2, utility demand-side management will be strengthened, and behavior change communication will be supported. Component 3 will focus on water sector policy support, utility assignment agreements development, and divestment of irrigation management to water user associations. The WMI's project management includes donor coordination and monitoring, evaluation, and learning. The initiative is supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and implemented by Tetra Tech. The WMI's geographic focus is Jordan, with a specific emphasis on the water supply systems, water conservation and demand management, water sector governance, and protection of water supply. The initiative's timeframes are aligned with the fiscal year, with quarterly progress reports submitted to USAID. The WMI's recommendations for the next quarter include continued support for the IMF Action Plan, enhancement of Yarmouk's financial and customer service performance, and strengthening of utility demand-side management. The initiative also recommends continued development of water sector policy, utility assignment agreements, and divestment of irrigation management to water user associations. The WMI's accomplishments and plans demonstrate its commitment to improving Jordan's water management systems and promoting sustainable water use practices. The initiative's focus on water conservation, demand management, and governance will help ensure a more secure and sustainable water future for Jordan.