Omdurman Water Supply Optimisation Scheme, Sudan

What is it? A new 200,000m3/d water treatment plant for Omdurman in Sudan, coupled with a water asset management programme aimed at improving the long-term sustainability of the project.

Who is responsible? Biwater secured the contract with support from Dutch, Malaysian and South African lenders. The financing incorporates a significant grant element.

Why is it shortlisted?

• The Omdurman Water Supply Optimisation Scheme was probably the most significant step towards the Millennium Development Goals in sub-Saharan Africa in 2008. It will eventually supply 1.5 million people.

• The project is not just about social sustainability. Its novel financial structure ensures both affordability for customers, and cost recovery for operations and maintenance. The asset management programme will ensure that the skills needed to maintain the project are transferred to the client.

• The plant is also a technical marvel. It has to deal with the seasonal turbidity of the Nile, which varies from 23,000NTU in the flood season to 130NTU in the dry season.