Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, – The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) and the Global Water Partnership-Caribbean (GWP-C), recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on initiatives related to water resources and human health.
The MOU signed between the organisations, represents a practical and meaningful relationship aimed at ensuring that Caribbean people have access to an adequate and sustainable supply of potable water for consumption, to satisfy hygiene and sanitation, while maintaining availability for sustenance of ecosystem functionality.
“Water quality impacts human health; these two areas are intrinsically bound,” pointed out Dr. C. James Hospedales, Executive Director, CARPHA. He added that “Water is a valuable resource for Caribbean citizens. It is therefore critical to provide water suitable for consumption and avoid unnecessary health risks. This agreement supports our joint efforts to promote water security, and to ensure a sustainable environment and preserve water resources in the Region.”
Chair of GWP-C, Ms. Judy Daniel explained “The connection between water and health would fit seamlessly into the goal of effective water resources management for the Region. A key element of the MOU is to promote Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) among Member States to advance sustainability of the water resource.”
According to the MOU, CARPHA and GWP-C will develop regional and national water resources policies, laws and other legal tools to advance human health, and conduct research and training programmes on water resources management and human health. Both parties agreed to pursue the acquisition of resources and development of partnerships for IWRM initiatives in the Caribbean, and collaborate on adaptation to climate change for regional water security and health.
Central to the agreement is the engagement of other Caribbean agencies and further strengthening of partnerships, in executing innovative projects and activities.