Our programmes: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands (IGG)

Countries

The programme focuses on the Horn of Africa, West Africa, and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

Duration & funding

• Phase I: 2019–2024
• Phase II: 2025–2029
• Funding amount: €85 million

What we do

Through Making Water Count, Aqua for All strengthens the market for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating in the water and sanitation sector while mobilising private investment and improving access to finance for these businesses.

Building on the evidence and lessons from the programme's first phase, Making Water Count applies Aqua for All's proven dual approach: combining market development with financial mobilisation to maximise the impact of public funding. By creating partnerships across the water, finance, and private sectors, the programme helps unlock additional financing for water and sanitation projects and accelerates the adoption of innovative finance mechanisms.

This approach enables WASH SMEs to grow, attract investment, and deliver sustainable water and sanitation solutions to underserved communities at scale.

Expected impact

During the second phase of the programme, Aqua for All aims to improve access to water and sanitation for 5.8 million people through a combination of direct funding and leveraged financing.

The second phase of the programme is expected to directly reach 1 million people while achieving a leverage ratio of 1:5, significantly increasing the total impact of the investment. By expanding access to water and sanitation, Making Water Count contributes to improved health, greater stability, enhanced well-being, and increased economic opportunities for local communities and partners.

In addition, the programme strengthens the business and financial ecosystem for water and sanitation SMEs by developing markets and mobilising private capital, helping to drive lasting systemic change across the sector.