Solidarités International (SI) has been implementing a Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) programme in Ar-Raqqa subdistrict, focusing on sustainable water access for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).
Given geographic constraints and temporary settlements, water trucking remains the only viable option in some areas.
To promote long-term resilience and reduce dependence on humanitarian aid, SI introduced a market-based approach, benefiting both IDPs and local truck owners. Key interventions included:
- financial support for truck owners to reintroduce chargeable water delivery;
- training and provision of chlorination materials to ensure water safety; and
- regular water quality monitoring, including free residual chlorine (FRC) and E. coli tests at truck and household levels.
As SI was planning to phase out financial support, ITAR was engaged to develop an exit strategy by analysing:
- the economic model of truck drivers’ businesses and conditions for sustainable, quality water delivery.
- household decision-making and behavioural drivers when choosing water sources and managing expenses.
The team followed a comparative approach across seven informal settlements, informing a sustainable transition strategy that ensures affordable, safe water access beyond humanitarian funding.
