In 2001, four high-level government officials from Indonesia and the Netherlands gathered to sign the first bilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Water. At that pivotal moment, Indonesia was facing pressing water-related challenges: widespread pollution, limited access to clean drinking water, frequent flooding and drought, and outdated infrastructure.

These issues threatened not only local water security but also the country’s food sovereignty and economic resilience. Through the MoU, both governments committed to work together on Indonesia’s water priorities and generate knowledge relevant to Dutch and Indonesian water challenges. More than a technical agreement, this MoU signified a shift towards equal diplomatic relations and mutual knowledge exchange. It laid the foundation for a decades-long partnership between the two nations.

The Dutch Water Sector in Indonesia

The current MoU on Water (2022 – 2027) serves as an umbrella for all Dutch co-funded bilateral water-related activities. It enables the Dutch water sector to contribute to Indonesia’s development priorities by applying its internationally recognised expertise and decades of experience in water infrastructure and management. Within this framework, the Partners for Water programme facilitates coordination, fosters collaboration, and connects actors in the Dutch water sector with relevant Indonesian counterparts. A high-level Joint Steering Committee (JSC) provides strategic guidance and meets annually. The JSC is co-chaired by the Indonesian Secretary-General of Public Works and the Dutch Director-General for Water and Soil at the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management. Dutch participation is facilitated via tenders, sector meetings and expert contributions to the JSC. Central to this engagement is building long-term relationships through knowledge exchange, capacity development and youth engagement.

Three Priorities

Within the bilateral cooperation, a strategic and programme-based approach is adopted to maximise effectiveness and impact. This approach centres on three priority themes, each supported by a dedicated working group and overseen by the JSC. The three themes are:

• Integrated Water Resilience in North Java
• Lowland Development for Irrigation
• Sharing Knowledge, Building Capacity, and Involving Youth

Integrated Water Resilience in North Java

Java’s northern coast is Indonesia’s economic and agricultural core, but it faces growing water challenges due to urbanisation, industry, and climate change. These pressures affect water availability and quality, while also increasing risks like land subsidence and flooding.

In response, the Indonesian government seeks integrated, future-proof solutions. Through the bilateral cooperation, Dutch and Indonesian partners are building water resilience by combining Nature-based Solutions with smart data technologies. This is done through collaboration with local stakeholders and capacity building, ensuring environmental and social values are embedded in each water solution.

The Netherlands contributes decades of experience in flood resilience, hydro-informatics, and coastal management to the collaboration. Along the North Java coastline, joint projects have developed practical, sustainable solutions – often in partnership with local actors and international organisations such as the Asian Development Bank, the World Bank and Invest International. For the Dutch water sector, opportunities remain strong to support investments, offer innovative solutions, and engage in knowledge exchange.

Integrated Water Resilience in Semarang

In the city of Semarang, the Indonesian and Dutch water sectors collaborate on integrated solutions for land subsidence, flooding and water scarcity. Combining Nature-based Solutions with conventional infrastructure, the project demonstrates climate-resilient interventions that protect both people and ecosystems. Building upon the Water as Leverage programme, the project collaborates with local communities and authorities, and Dutch and Indonesian experts. It focuses on long-term spatial planning towards a climate-resilient Semarang by 2045 and illustrates how co-creation and inclusive design are key to integrated water resilience in North Java. Partners include One Architecture, Arcadis, Diponegoro University (UNDIP), PriceWaterhouseCoopers, the Ministry of Public Works, the Ministry of National Development Planning, the City of Semarang and Central Java Province.

Lowland Development for Irrigation

The vast lowlands and peatlands of Indonesia are essential to the country’s agricultural productivity and food sovereignty ambitions. However, these areas face complex water management challenges including flooding, acid sulphate soils, low fertility, and saline intrusion. Where peatlands have been drained for agriculture, challenges are compounded by land subsidence, fires, and carbon emissions, threatening productivity and ecological stability. Increasing lowland food productivity is a government priority. Therefore, Indonesia is implementing comprehensive rehabilitation strategies for tidal and non-tidal lowland areas through participatory irrigation management systems. These systems are built on five pillars: water supply reliability, infrastructure development, effective irrigation management, institutional frameworks, and human resource capacity.

The Netherlands and Indonesia have built a valuable partnership in lowland development and irrigation since the first MoU signing. This collaboration, mainly focused in South Sumatra and Kalimantan, has developed expertise in data collection, mapping, governance, and technical innovations. Currently, the collaboration focuses on enhancing productivity through improved water management in existing lowland areas. It offers the Dutch water sector opportunities to exchange knowledge and expertise, particularly through intergenerational knowledge transfer, and to provide monitoring and technical support for water management and infrastructure solutions.

Dadahup

In the degraded polder area of Dadahup, Central Kalimantan, Indonesian and Dutch experts have been working together since 2021 to rehabilitate 25,000 hectares of lowland agricultural land. The project began with a request from the Ministry of Public Works and Housing for a second opinion on water management and flood protection. Dutch expertise has supported the development of practical solutions tailored to the local context, such as a simplified system for dry and rainy seasons. The current phase focuses on human resource development through hands-on training and knowledge transfer. Partners include IHE Delft Institute for Water Education, The Indonesian Ministry of Public Works and Housing (PUPR), the Netherlands Enterprise and Development Agency (RVO) and the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management.

Sharing Knowledge, Building Capacity, and Involving Youth

The Dutch-Indonesian water partnership recognises that effective water management relies on long-term investment in people. Knowledge transfer is therefore a fundamental, cross-cutting pillar of the bilateral cooperation. This theme supports the work of the other working groups by ensuring continuity and future relevance through youth engagement and capacity building. A joint knowledge exchange programme is being implemented. This programme includes initiatives like the Dutch Training and Exchange Programme (DUTEP), Wave Indonesia, webinars with local institutions, and youth-oriented activities such as hackathons and field visits. Additionally, high-level events and missions highlight the partnership and foster connections between Dutch and Indonesian stakeholders.

Particular emphasis is placed on intergenerational exchange, enabling senior experts to pass on insights to the next generation of water professionals. For the Dutch water sector, this theme offers valuable opportunities to contribute by strategically leveraging the diverse networks built over years of partnership, and by embedding these exchanges into the formal MoU collaboration. This ensures that they are not isolated but connected and mutually reinforcing.

The Welang Watershed

The Welang Watershed project in East Java demonstrates integrated, community-driven water management through upstream conservation and downstream flood mitigation. Solutions are co-created with local communities, authorities and experts to ensure relevance and long-term impact. The project strengthens capacity by embedding knowledge exchange between Indonesian and Dutch partners, fostering local ownership and engaging with schools to raise youth awareness on waste and river health. Led by Witteveen+Bos, Nuffic Southeast Asia and AidEnvironment, the project facilitates collaborative knowledge exchange, capacity building and youth engagement.

Read more about the Welang project.

Looking Ahead

After over 25 years of fruitful collaboration – marked by diverse and impactful initiatives, strong partnerships, and lifelong professional friendships – the bilateral water cooperation between Indonesia and the Netherlands is in full swing. Looking two decades ahead, Indonesia aspires to become a resilient, high-income society and the world’s fifth-largest economy by 2045. Achieving this ambition will require addressing its urgent water challenges, opening up new opportunities to exchange innovative, inclusive and sustainable solutions with the Dutch water sector.

The joint ambition is to strengthen mutual trust, secure future cooperation and ensure the Dutch water sector remains a relevant and valued partner for Indonesia. In the coming years, the bilateral cooperation will continue to focus on the current three key areas. Actors in the broader Dutch water sector – like knowledge institutions, NGOs and companies – are invited to engage in this cooperation. They can do so by applying for tenders or joining one of the many webinars, information sessions and networking events hosted by Partners for Water.

Is your organisation interested in co-creating a coordinated vision for water resilience in Semarang, Indonesia? Read about our call for market orientation.

Dutch start-up Reefy is making waves in coastal protection with its innovative ReefBlock technology, implementing Nature-based Solutions from Rotterdam to Mexico. The company launched a successful pilot in Rotterdam’s port area in 2023, and scaled up with support of the Partners for Water subsidy by bringing its ReefBlock technology to Mexico’s threatened coastline in 2024.

The ReefBlocks – large, Lego-like structures featuring complex tunnel systems – serve not only as a foundation for reef growth but also as a submerged breakwater to protect the coastline. Their expansion from Rotterdam to Mexico showcases how innovative Nature-based Solutions can be successfully adapted for international challenges.

This interview with Reefy is originally from the Dutch Water Sector website.

Two years after installing an artificial reef using reef blocks in the Port of Rotterdam to reduce the impact of heavy waves and foster a rich underwater landscape, the project has proven that infrastructure development and nature restoration can go hand in hand.

The reef blocks have notably enhanced the Port of Rotterdam’s busiest shipping channel, giving rise to greater species diversity, cleaner water, and a stronger ecosystem. Monitoring shows that the reef offers shelter to a variety of marine species, increasing the biodiversity.

Modular reef design and installation

In 2023, a Dutch consortium comprising Rijkswaterstaat (Directorate-General for Public Works and Water Management), the Municipality of Rotterdam, Boskalis, and Reefy installed the ‘Rotterdam Reef’, a modular reef structure consisting of 17 three metre long and six tonne concrete blocks featuring tunnels, shaded passages, and rough textures. The structure has created a dynamic ecosystem where fish, crabs, and shrimp can thrive, offering protection for both coastlines and marine life.

Collaboration across stakeholders

In addition, the rough surfaces of the reef blocks have encouraged shellfish and the growth of algae, leading to three times higher biodiversity compared to standard concrete structures. Petra de Groene, Director of Economy and Sustainability at the Municipality of Rotterdam, said that “Learning by doing helped us bridge the gap from lab testing to real-world application, where concrete and biodiversity work hand in hand.” Research involving environmental DNA (eDNA) has confirmed that the Port of Rotterdam’s main channel serves as a crossroads for freshwater, saltwater, and migratory fish species. The reef supports fish migration, promotes continuous water circulation and enhances water quality through natural filtration.

Resilient and Storm-Ready

In terms of technical performance, the reef blocks have proven to be resilient under extreme weather conditions. All 17 blocks remained stable during severe storms, including Storm Poly in July 2023.

Over the last two years, the project has demonstrated that the artificial reef reduces wave action and promotes sediment accumulation behind it, thus increasing coastal protection and preventing erosion. Reef blocks can also make coastlines more resilient to storms and floods and, say project partners, they are ready for broader application at a global scale.

Leon Haines, Co-founder and CTO of Reefy, explained that “This project proves that nature and infrastructure can truly strengthen each other. The reef blocks are a sustainable, scalable solution for water safety and ecological restoration. We are ready to scale the technology globally and are already working on projects ranging from rivers in the Netherlands to the tropical Caribbean in Mexico!”

Partnerships Across Sectors

The project’s success is credited to strong collaboration among partners. Reefy developed the modular technology, seamlessly merging coastal protection with ecosystem restoration. Boskalis managed the installation of the reef blocks, drawing on their expertise in hydraulic engineering and coastal defence. The Municipality of Rotterdam supported innovation and ecological monitoring, gathering valuable environmental data. Rijkswaterstaat championed the initiative for nature-inclusive infrastructure in the Port of Rotterdam.

The reef blocks project aligns with the goals of the European Water Framework Directive, which aims to improve habitats for aquatic plants and animals while enhancing overall water quality.

By 2026, Bangladesh is expected to transition from a low-income to a middle-income country, marking a significant shift in its development landscape. This transition opens up new opportunities for Dutch private organisations and investors to engage more deeply with Bangladesh’s development. In this transition, the collaboration will shift from aid to a partnership based on mutual interests, equal collaborations, and robust economic relations. The Dutch private sector has a chance to play a significant role in this new phase, leveraging its expertise in water management and other important sectors.

But in order to enter this tactical and operational playing field for long-term collaboration, there is work to be done. In this article, two experts share their insights on public-private partnerships in Bangladesh. Fahim Faisal is a researcher and the author of a report commissioned by Partners for Water (PfW) on Public-Private Partnership (PPP) opportunities in Bangladesh. Rubaiyath Sarwar supported the development of a vision and strategy for the Dutch Water sector in Bangladesh beyond ODA (Official Development Aid). Together, they identify the Dutch USP (Unique Selling Point) and the six main ingredients for successful partnerships.

The Dutch USP: quality and strategic impact

The Netherlands has been historically recognised for its trustworthy advisory services, knowledge products and high-end technology, strategically working with the Government of Bangladesh (GoB) for the last 50 years on water and food security, organisational strengthening and social development topics, such as sexual and reproductive health and rights. The efforts on water and food have culminated in the Bangladesh Delta Plan 2100 (BDP2100). The emphasis on comprehensive, holistic and integrated programming and strategic impact is a hallmark of Dutch bilateral engagement. With Bangladesh’s middle-income status, the dynamics are changing for the better with sustained opportunities for Dutch technology and knowledge.

Bangladesh changes perspective

Bangladesh is evolving in its approach to development projects, emphasising not just cost but also quality and technological advancement. The government is steering this shift. As Rubaiyath notes, “When we talk about Bangladesh, often we have this perception that having a low budget is very important. That’s true in some cases, but both the government and the private sector are gradually recognising that it’s not just about low initial cost, it’s also about quality and added value.”

Government to government (G2G) collaboration to facilitate PPPs

With the transition, opportunities for new collaboration frameworks are coming to the table. One of these potential frameworks is a Government to Government Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to facilitate PPPs. The MoU acts as a binding agreement between governments, reducing political and project risks. Fahim highlights that this form of G2G cooperation minimizes risks and attracts international funding by making projects more attractive to investors. Several countries have already signed a MoU with Bangladesh, and the Netherlands is exploring this option.

Six ingredients to start building long-term relationships in Bangladesh

To establish successful long-term business relationships in Bangladesh, local experts recommend focusing on these six key strategies.

1. Leverage expertise in the water and agricultural sector

Dutch companies face significant competition from established and low-cost consortia dominating the Bangladeshi market. However, the Dutch water sector can build on its long-standing relationships in the water and agricultural sector, and on its reputation for leadership in technical assistance. It can thus continue leading feasibility and technical supervision missions for forthcoming projects. By partnering with soft loan providers, the sector can design projects that will help Bangladesh achieve its Delta Technology goals, while leveraging Dutch technologies. These projects help Dutch companies to gain a foothold, demonstrating their added value in tactical and operational projects.

2. Build strong relationships

Establishing robust relationships with key agencies that are new to the Dutch water sector is crucial for effective project implementation. Engaging with agencies like the PPP Authority and the Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA) ensures reliable project execution and financial backing. Building these relationships takes time, local presence and upfront investments, but ultimately facilitates smoother project development.

Examples: By drawing on the experiences of the British and Danish private sectors, the Dutch private sector can benefit from further intensifying and utilising existing platforms like the Dutch-Bangla Chamber of Commerce & Industry. These platforms foster collaborations, enhance mutual understanding, and offer valuable partnership opportunities. Additionally, developing local lobby groups to advocate for Dutch investments could be a strategic move.

3. Showcase added value

Breaking into established consortia favoured by Bangladeshi agencies, primarily consisting of Asian contractors, is challenging. The Dutch private sector must clearly demonstrate its added value and competitive advantages to persuade the government to consider new partnerships. Effective communication of the sector’s unique strengths and capabilities is crucial in order to enter and compete in the market. As Fahim says “there is often a general awareness of Dutch expertise in agriculture and water management, but specific knowledge about individual companies and their specialties is lacking.” Enhancing the visibility and understanding of Dutch companies’ strengths will facilitate more targeted and effective partnerships with Bangladeshi firms.

Example: Chinese companies dominate the energy sector due to their long-term presence and strong local partnerships. However, despite their low overhead costs, they often fail to deliver projects on time. Highlighting Dutch companies’ superior project management and technological advancements, as well as reduced operational and maintenance costs in the long term can help overcome these established preferences.

4. Use quality as a way into existing consortiums

Dutch firms can leverage their technical expertise and high-quality technology to penetrate the market by focusing on niche opportunities that require premium, long-term solutions. Engaging in technical feasibility assessments and design missions allows Dutch firms to define their scope and demonstrate the business case for high-value investments, influencing tender documents to favour their capabilities. The Dutch private sector could be considered as the partner of choice for sustainable investments.

Example: Japan’s involvement in constructing Dhaka’s new airport terminal highlights how a focus on quality and technological superiority can secure project bids. Their participation in the feasibility study and the development of a robust technological plan, integrated into the procurement process, significantly increased their chances of winning the project.

5. Provide soft loans to reduce risks

Addressing the critical issue of soft loans can help Dutch companies overcome the perception of being expensive high-end technical service providers. Partnering with international financial agencies to offer financing solutions can mitigate the Bangladeshi government’s concerns about higher costs and enhance the attractiveness of Dutch firms in competitive tenders. Projects like these help Dutch companies to gain a foothold and demonstrate their added value.

Example: Japan provided a $1.3 billion low-interest loan for Dhaka’s new airport terminal through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). This financial support reduced the project’s risks, making it more viable and attractive.

6. Target specific sectors to capitalise on entry opportunities

There are promising opportunities for the Dutch water sector to engage with government institutes in the fields of water and delta. As Bangladesh transitions from a low-income to a middle-income country, opportunities will extend beyond government initiatives, especially in the private sector. Small to medium size companies in the readymade garment (RMG) sector are shifting towards sustainability, renewable energy, and circular economy practices. All these issues can actually provide opportunities for the Dutch private sector. “And later on Dutch firms can actually capitalise on those entry opportunities and move into other areas,” Rubaiyath explains.

Example: The collaboration within the Dutch Bangla Onion Support in the Bangladeshi onion sector highlights the broad scope of opportunities. Together, they supply integrated solutions aimed at producing better quality onions, reducing post-harvest losses, and ultimately decreasing onion imports while increasing income for onion growers and traders. This collaboration addresses agricultural storage challenges and showcases Dutch versatility beyond water management. The agricultural, circular textile, and IT sectors offer fertile ground for Dutch technological support, fostering sustainable and mutually beneficial growth.

Continued collaboration for sustainable and mutual growth

As Bangladesh evolves, the focus is shifting from merely cost-effective solutions to those that offer quality and technological advancement. This aligns well with the Dutch approach, which emphasises strategic impact and high standards. By adopting these six ingredients for building successful long-term business relationships, Dutch companies can further penetrate the Bangladeshi market. In doing so, they can foster sustainable and mutually beneficial growth, thereby contributing to SDG5 and achieving the Dutch policy goal to increase water security and safety for over a hundred million people worldwide by 2030.

As a child, Maryna Yushchenko witnessed the water quality in her home city of Kyiv deteriorate year after year. This inspired her to focus her career on water management. Three years ago, she moved to the Netherlands to pursue that ambition. Today, she is in her third year of the Water Management programme at HZ University of Applied Sciences in Middelburg. She is specialising in spatial planning and design and is applying her skills as an intern at Partners for Water tackling international water challenges. Nice to meet you, Maryna!

Growing up in Kyiv, a city built on water, Maryna spent her childhood playing along the riverbanks. “It was really sad seeing the water quality deteriorating in my home city. Algae blooms increasingly polluted the river, eventually making the water so green that swimming was impossible for most of the summer season,” she explains. “This experience inspired me to dedicate my studies and career to water management.”

Spatial analysis to restore wetlands

At Partners for Water, Maryna is currently involved in a wetland reconnection project on the border of Thailand and Laos. In collaboration with WWF and Royal HaskoningDHV, the project aims to restore the link between the wetland area and the Mekong River using Nature-based Solutions (NbS). “Agricultural expansion and invasive plant species have led to the wetland’s gradual degradation and disconnection from the river,” explains Maryna. “My role involves spatial analysis and testing interventions that would reconnect the wetland with minimal disruption to the local communities.”

Working on global water management solutions

What drew Maryna to Partners for Water was its international focus. “I like that Partners for Water not only focuses on the Dutch water sector but also on international water management projects,” she says. This global perspective aligns perfectly with her own values about knowledge exchange. “I think it’s great that the Netherlands has so much expertise in the water sphere and I feel like sharing this expertise is so valuable for other countries like mine.”

Multidisciplinary collaboration

In addition to improving her mapping software skills, Maryna’s hopes to gain experience working and communicating in multidisciplinary teams. “Unlike my studies, where projects were tackled one at a time, my role at Partners for Water involves juggling multiple tasks simultaneously. This internship’s diverse projects really encourages me to adapt to different initiatives and work on my communications with various stakeholders.”

Ambitions for global sustainable water management

Maryna’s ultimate ambition goes beyond personal growth. “My biggest motivation is changing how water is viewed and treated around the world,” she shares. “In the Netherlands, water is seen as a really valuable resource. But, in many other parts of the world, it’s often treated as a nuisance.” She dreams of returning to Ukraine someday to apply innovative and sustainable water management principles. “I would love to bring the knowledge I have acquired here to Ukraine, to help change my home city and give water the value and respect it deserves.”

From 24-28 August, World Water Week 2025 will take place. This event is centered on water cooperation, for peace and security in its broadest sense. The theme, Water for Climate Action, this is your chance to showcase ideas, share expertise, and collaborate on solutions for today’s water and climate challenges.

Partners for Water is hosting the Netherlands booth

Partners for Water is proud to host the Netherlands booth at Stockholm World Water Week, a space where you can showcase your innovations and insights. The booth can accommodate up to 35 participants per event and is equipped with advanced audio and visual facilities. Together, we can strengthen climate resilience and accelerate progress on global water solutions. Will you join us?

Host a session or activity at the NL booth

Do you want to collaborate and showcase Dutch expertise on water and climate action at the Netherlands booth? To complete your participation and register your session, please fill out the form via the button ‘submit your session’ by 6 June 2025 17:00 CEST. Before the end of June you will receive an email if your session has been accepted to take place in the NL booth. Submit your session.

Preparatory Meeting for Dutch Participation

You are cordially invited to attend a preparatory meeting for the Dutch contribution to World Water Week (WWW) in Stockholm (24–28 August). This meeting will take place on Thursday, 12 June 2025, in The Hague. Time: 13:00 – 14:30. Do you want to join? Please register via the link. 

Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a transformative conversation on the future of water!

“Too much fluoride in water can cause brown teeth and other health issues. In Kenya’s Rift Valley, people live with that reality every day.” Begüm Tanis and Guus Wiersma from TU Delft explain how they are working on a practical water solution to provide safe drinking water: a household water filter designed to tackle both excess fluoride and bacterial contamination. Supported by the Partners for Water programme, the project aims to improve water security while reducing costs and plastic waste.

Wiersma, project coordinator, and Tanis, assistant professor, both work at TU Delft’s Water Management Department. They are part of a consortium comprising Harbauer Limited, Resilience BV, Nazava Water Filters Ltd., and Delft University of Technology. Their shared goal? Safe, affordable drinking water—without the environmental cost.

Synergising proven water solutions

“The two components of the solution are both already existing technologies,” explains Wiersma. “We combined Nazava’s ceramic filter, which is highly effective at removing bacteria and viruses, with the HAPaqua system.” The latter is an adsorbent filter designed to reduce fluoride levels, using Hydroxyapatite as its base material.

Tanis adds: “The system operates with granular material through which the water flows, allowing the fluoride to bind to the granules. As the water passes through the filter, the fluoride is captured by the material, resulting in water with significantly reduced fluoride content.”

Addressing a critical health concern

The project targets Kenya’s Rift Valley, where naturally occurring fluoride in the groundwater often exceeds safe levels. “Most people in the region are aware that consuming too much fluoride can lead to health problems, such as brown or mottled teeth—also known as dental fluorosis,” explains Wiersma.
Tanis adds: “In the past, many residents relied on bone char (charcoal made from animal bones) to filter out fluoride. But this method has several drawbacks, including health concerns, inconsistent quality, and limited filtration capacity.”

“The impact on the daily lives of users will be significant,” says Wiersma. He shares that the initial response from the communities has been very open and positive.

Benefits beyond clean water

The filter can be used with various water sources, including rainwater, groundwater, and even surface water. However, the impact of this innovation goes beyond simply providing safe drinking water. “Currently, people buy bottled water when they can afford it. But with the Nazava filter, you can treat up to 7,000 litres of water,” Tanis explains. “That’s quite a lot.” “This saves households money by reducing the need to purchase expensive bottled water, but also significantly cuts down on plastic waste,” adds Wiersma.

Testing in real conditions

Rather than conducting tests in the Netherlands using artificially contaminated water, the team set up a laboratory in Nakuru, Kenya, to test the filters with naturally fluoridated water. “By testing on location, you get the most accurate results, because you’re using the actual water the filters are designed to treat,” explains Tanis.

The team collected water from two different boreholes, each with distinct fluoride concentrations. “We continuously used water from the same sources for each test, ensuring that the fluoride concentration in the inflow remained relatively constant,” Tanis adds. “This allowed us to reliably compare the performance of the filters under consistent conditions.”

The team also collaborated with Egerton University in Nakuru, where a local student joined the project as an intern. In addition, an undergraduate student from TU Delft spent several months in Kenya working with the prototypes and conducting water quality testing.

“It’s a great opportunity for students to work on applied, real-world projects,” says Wiersma. “The students supported us in testing two different prototypes and also conducted additional tests to examine preferential flow,” adds Tanis. “The outcomes of both the students’ tests and our tests were promising, showing that the filters effectively removed fluoride.”

Royal recognition

During a state visit to Kenya, Queen Máxima of the Netherlands and the Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Reinette Klever, were also introduced to the water solution. “Queen Máxima’s response was very positive,” says Wiersma enthusiastically. “It was great to show them our prototype. The Queen’s interest could help raise awareness of the fluoride contamination issues in the Rift Valley.”

Looking ahead: scaling for wider impact

The team has applied for the next round of Partners for Water funding to continue testing and improving the solution before scaling up. “Initially, we’ll focus on Kenya,” says Tanis, “but the Rift Valley stretches from Ethiopia through Kenya and Tanzania all the way down to Mozambique. People face the same issue throughout the region, so if you have a solution that works, why not scale it up?” Wiersma concludes: “Ultimately, our goal is to provide access to safe drinking water for everyone, while simultaneously reducing the plastic burden on the environment.”

Malawi is increasingly grappling with severe flooding. As climate change intensifies, rainfall is becoming more extreme, leaving communities with little time to prepare. While early warning systems exist, they fall short when it comes to dealing with flash floods. Processing takes too long, predictions lack precision and crucial data is often inaccessible due to licensing restrictions and costly software. The result? People receive warnings too late or not at all, resulting in potential loss of life and damage to infrastructure and possessions.

Time for change. With support from the Partners for Water subsidy scheme, an effective collaboration between Royal HaskoningDHV (RHDHV), Malawi’s Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services (DCCMS), the Department of Water Resources (DWR), Malawi Red Cross Society (MRCS) and the Netherlands Red Cross’ data and digital team, 510 (NLRC 510) has developed a revamped early warning system. By integrating improved forecasting models into the open-source Impact-Based Forecasting Portal (IBF), this initiative is setting a new benchmark for flood management in Malawi and beyond. The new system expands on what was already in place, enhancing key aspects that needed strengthening.

Building on the foundation of early warning systems

Malawi has long recognised the importance of early warning systems in protecting communities from flooding. However, many of the existing tools faced limitations that reduced their effectiveness, especially in the case of flash floods:

• Generalised predictions – Global datasets often lacked the local detail needed for accurate, on-the-ground forecasts.
• Delays in processing – In rapidly changing weather conditions, timely data delivery is critical. In the case of flash floods, most warnings arrive too late.
• Limited access – Many systems require costly licenses or are too complex for widespread use.
• Communication gaps – Even when warnings are issued, they do not always reach the right people, or be clearly understood at the community level.

By identifying these areas for improvement, the project team was able to develop a system that is faster, more accurate and inclusive.

The solution: IBF with advanced forecasting models

The team recognised the potential of NLRC 510’s Impact-Based Forecasting Portal (IBF) and wanted to expand its capabilities. Unlike many other tools, the IBF System does not just provide raw data; it offers an intuitive digital environment where all relevant information is consolidated. This enables disaster managers to make timely, well-informed decisions.

To make a real difference, IBF required an upgrade: A Flash Flood Forecasting Module. This new feature integrates local flood models with external rainfall data, significantly improving accuracy. The team had already developed advanced hydrodynamic and hydrological models for Karonga and Rumphi, two flood-prone cities, but they lacked a way to integrate these models into a functioning early warning system.

Partners for Water then stepped in on request, co-financing further development. As a result, IBF can now handle flash floods more effectively and is scalable for other regions facing climate-related challenges.

From forecasting to action: making warnings work

A high-tech forecasting system is great, but if people do not act on its warnings, it is useless. That is why IBF was designed with accessibility and usability in mind. In collaboration with UNICEF, MRCS and NLRC 510, several strategies were developed to ensure warnings lead to action such as:

• WhatsApp alert groups – Local meteorologists and disaster responders send daily updates and emergency warnings in real time.
• Local early warning systems – Megaphones, radio broadcasts and motorbike couriers ensure that even those without smartphones receive timely alerts.
• Warnings in local languages – By translating alerts into regional dialects, everyone can understand what is happening and what they need to do.

Thanks to this combination of digital and traditional communication channels, the system reaches even the most remote villages. People can now take precautionary measures and better prepare for extreme weather events.

Impact so far – and what comes next

With the new IBF System in place, Malawi is now far better equipped to handle flash floods. The system has already proven effective, issuing timely warnings that allowed authorities and residents to take preventive action.
However, there is still work to be done. The next steps for the government and local organisations in Malawi include:

• Expanding IBF to include more cities and rural areas.
• Further improving sensor networks to enhance real-time data accuracy.
• Securing long-term funding and full government adoption.

A system that endures

Where previous projects have struggled due to financial or technical constraints, IBF has been designed with sustainability in mind. The system is open-source and freely accessible, eliminating the need for costly software licenses. Additionally, the project has installed multiple monitoring stations equipped with rain gauges and water level sensors that continuously collect and process data.

However, funding remains a challenge. Sensors require maintenance, SIM cards need replacing and without structural resources, the system’s long-term effectiveness could be at risk. Herman de Jonge (RHDHV) stresses the importance of long-term financing, whether through government support, humanitarian funds, or the Early Action Protocol of MRCS, which releases emergency funding when critical thresholds , such as number of people at risk are reached.

A model for the future

The impact of this project extends well beyond Malawi. Thanks to Partners for Water’s funding, IBF can be rolled out through a broader part of Malawi. However, the impact of this project extends well beyond this East African country. The technology behind IBF is scalable and can be deployed in other climate-vulnerable regions. Moreover, the system is flexible and can be adapted to forecast other disasters, such as droughts, cyclones, or even diseases like malaria and dengue. This aligns closely with the United Nations Early Warnings for All programme, which aims to ensure that all communities worldwide have access to reliable early warning systems.

With an innovative approach and targeted investment in technology and accessibility, this project is setting a new standard in disaster prevention. With sustained resources, its impact could reach far beyond Malawi helping thousands, if not millions, of people prepare for an increasingly unpredictable climate.

To address this issue, Element15 deployed its unique BAR system water solution in Ghana’s Northern Region, in partnership with Partners for Water, and with initial support from Invest International. It contains an innovative filtration process that removes all harmful substances from the water, making it safe for consumption. In addition, the BAR filtration systems eliminate the need for boiling, allowing families to drink safe water straight from the source.

This water solution not only provides safe drinking water but also prevents releasing emissions from the open fire. These avoided emissions are converted into carbon credits, certified by Gold Standard. Revenue from these credits keeps the systems running, funds maintenance, creates local jobs and allows us to expand operations and impact – at zero cost to the communities.

“Water touches everything – it’s the most fundamental resource for our planet and it connects many sectors. That’s what I find truly fascinating about working in this field.” Matthijs Zijlmans joined Partners for Water six years ago, after a traineeship in the water team at the RVO (Netherlands Enterprise and Development Agency) and having worked for the former water programme Dutch Surge Support.

With a background in public administration and economics, he often focuses on the governance and international relations aspects of water projects. He works as a project adviser for Vietnam and Nature-based Solutions. Nice to meet you Matthijs!

Innovative international water projects

“Over the past years, I’ve worked on various projects internationally. Current examples are our collaboration with Thủ Đức City on urban flood resilience, the Mekong Delta Living Lab, and developing a coastal protection pilot in the Philippines. What makes these projects truly exciting is the real momentum and their practical innovation.”

“In Thủ Đức City, we’re developing Nature-based Solutions to address urgent flooding challenges. We’re working together with the World Bank, the City government and a consortium led by Royal HaskoningDHV’s Vietnam office. And in the Living Lab, led by TU Delft with Vietnamese partners, we study the restoration of mangrove ecosystems.” Matthijs explains that Vietnam has seen many mangrove reforestation efforts over the past thirty years, with mixed results. “This project studies the coastal system to understand why some projects thrive while others fail, building a knowledge foundation for sustainable interventions.”

Systems approach to water challenges

“Both projects incorporate a systems approach,” says Matthijs. “Which means they look beyond immediate water management issues to understand the broader social, economic and environmental contexts.” Matthijs shares that taking on a systems approach has been one of the most valuable lessons he has learnt over the past years. “Understanding how systems function has helped me identify which aspects we can actually influence. Rather than working on solutions that might never be implemented due to economic or political barriers, it helps me focus on interventions that will be most effective.”

Essential elements for good collaboration

“Another crucial aspect of effective solutions is creating equal partnerships with our international partners, where we listen to their needs without imposing solutions,” explains Matthijs. “Equal partnerships are important for creating solutions that truly fit the local context, but also for enabling local partners to take ownership of the projects. This is essential in order to sustain solutions long-term.”

“In the Philippines, we’ve developed a coastal protection pilot in Malolos City that combines underwater shell-based breakwaters, bamboo sediment traps, and green dykes,” shares Matthijs. “While we provide technical advice and support by financing the preparation phase, the local partners make the decisions.” The city also invests its own funds in the project. “This financial commitment demonstrates their dedication to the project’s success.”

Future perspectives

“What makes this work rewarding is the freedom we have to find innovative approaches to complex problems that aren’t getting smaller,” says Matthijs. In September he will take a break from PfW to participate in a leadership track at RVO, but afterwards he’ll return to the PfW team. “I’m looking forward to continuing co-creating innovative projects that create lasting positive change in water management worldwide.”