The New Urban Agenda of the United Nations emphasises the importance of effective municipal enterprises for sustainable, climate-resilient and inclusive urban development. The Member States are committed to taking measures that will strengthen the performance capability of water utilities.
Germany's Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) believes German municipal enterprises have an important role to play in strengthening the local delivery of basic public services in partner countries. They possess the knowledge, skills and experience needed on the ground. This is why the BMZ has initiated the pilot project: Utility platform for strengthening partnerships of municipal utilities worldwide. The pilot phase until June 2024 focused on municipal water utilities. In addition, three partnerships between waste management companies were being piloted. Since July 2024, both sector play a key role in the project.
With the utility platform, the BMZ is supporting cooperation and partnerships between German and international municipal utilities. Furthermore, durable structures are being established that will in future support partnerships between municipal enterprises worldwide.
Partnership-based transfer of technical know-how, business and organizational knowledge.
The Utility Platform works together with the Association of Municipal Companies (VKU), German Water Partnership (GWP), and Engagement Global with its Service Agency Communities in One World.
Strengthening partnerships of municipal enterprises worldwide: professional support, networking, direct support, qualification measures, financing advice.