The Plateau Municipal Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (PLAMWASSA) play a key role as an implementing agency for the Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation, and Hygiene (SURWASH) program in Plateau State, specifically focusing on small towns and underserved communities with populations over 5,000 people, as well as local government headquarters. Established by the Water Sector Law (2019), the agency was carved out from the Jos Water Service Corporation (JWSC) to address the water and sanitation gaps that historically existed between urban and rural communities.

PLAMWASSA’s goal is to bridge the gap in water and sanitation access across Plateau State by ensuring equitable provision of services, improving public health, and reducing waterborne diseases. The agency’s mission is to provide reliable, sustainable, and safe water and sanitation services to municipalities and small towns in Plateau, focusing on underserved areas to ensure that all citizens have access to essential services.

PLAMWASSA envisions a future where it delivers safe and efficient water and sanitation services in Plateau’s municipalities and small towns, aligning with the broader goals of the SURWASH program for equitable and sustainable service delivery. The agency operates with core values of efficiency, accountability, innovation, teamwork, inclusiveness, and integrity, ensuring the highest standards of service and governance in all its operations.

As an implementing agency for the SURWASH program, PLAMWASSA’s key responsibilities include the development, operation, and maintenance of water supply systems in these areas, such as rehabilitation of water treatment plants, extension of pipelines, Isolated Water Schemes, and to provide reliable access to safe drinking water for underserved communities. Additionally, PLAMWASSA focuses on improving sanitation and hygiene services by constructing and maintaining public sanitation facilities and waste management systems, while also promoting hygienic practices to prevent open defecation and ensure that communities have proper sanitation facilities.

The agency also plays an important role in hygiene promotion and education, working with communities to raise awareness about best practices in handwashing, safe water use, and sanitation, aiming to reduce waterborne diseases and improve public health. To address the growing demand for water and sanitation services, PLAMWASSA rehabilitates and upgrades existing infrastructure in small towns, ensuring that water and sanitation systems can effectively meet the needs of expanding populations. As part of its commitment to sustainability, PLAMWASSA incorporates renewable energy sources, water conservation programs, and modern technologies to enhance service delivery and ensure the long-term viability of water and sanitation systems.

Furthermore, PLAMWASSA is responsible for monitoring the performance of its water supply and sanitation systems, ensuring they meet service delivery standards. The agency regularly reports on progress and challenges to relevant stakeholders, including the SURWASH coordination teams and Plateau State government, ensuring transparency and accountability in its operations.