Celebrating constructed wetland day in Ethiopia – A milestone for clean water and sanitation

Official inauguration and community blessing

The opening ceremony was a deeply meaningful event, blessed by the Abagadda, the respected elders of the community. Their blessing was a powerful symbol of the local support for the project, which will now help improve public health and environmental sustainability.

The State Minister for Water Supply and Sanitation, H.E. Dr. Ambassador Asfaw Dingamo, formally inaugurated the wetland, emphasising how critical sanitation is to effective water management. "Sanitation is an essential part of the water cycle that cannot be overlooked," he stated.

Connecting water supply and wastewater treatment

Dutch First Secretary for Water Affairs, Jelmer van Veen, highlighted the importance of a holistic approach to water management. "We often focus on securing sufficient water supply but sometimes forget about what happens to water afterwards," he said. "The health and environmental impact of untreated wastewater should not be underestimated. It’s all connected."

A community-driven solution

This project goes beyond just providing a nature-based solution. The Dembela community has taken ownership of the wetland, working alongside the Adama Water Utility to ensure its long-term sustainability. By involving the local population, this initiative is not only environmentally sound but also community-based, fostering a sense of pride and responsibility.

The vision for the future

World Waternet’s CEO, Frodo, brought an energetic close to the event by stating: "Next year, we hope to see the Dembela wetland in full bloom, and we aim to establish more wetlands in other cities. For me, this day should be recognised as Ethiopia’s constructed wetland day."

A broader impact across Ethiopia

This wetland in Adama joins similar initiatives, such as those in Shashemene, in providing nature-based wastewater treatment solutions across Ethiopia. These efforts are part of World Waternet’s commitment to supporting sustainable, community-driven water solutions. By collaborating with local communities and utilities, we ensure that these projects will have a lasting, positive impact on both public health and the environment.

Read more about the community benefits experienced at similar wetlands in Shashemene [here (You are leaving this website)].

Happy constructed wetland day, Ethiopia! Let’s continue working together for a future where water management benefits everyone.