GEF CReW+ Kwakwani: Building Sustainable Wastewater Infrastructure for a Healthy Community

Interview with Marle Reyes, environmental engineer and expert wastewater treatment for the GEF CReW+ project

Kwakwani is a small community in the Upper Demerara-Berbice region of Guyana. The town is located in a rural area near the Berbice River, surrounded by dense tropical forests. The population of Kwakwani is relatively small but consists of resilient and hardworking people, many of whom rely on mining and bauxite forestry as their main economic activities.

The community in Kwakwani is known for its strong sense of belonging and cooperation among residents, as well as its deep connection to the natural environment. Life in the region is shaped by the proximity to forests and rivers, making water resources a vital part of daily life. However, due to a lack of adequate infrastructure, wastewater treatment has been a persistent challenge, affecting the well-being of residents.

What sanitation problems does Kwakwani face?

“The main sanitation issue in Kwakwani is that the current wastewater collection and treatment system is in poor condition due to a lack of maintenance. This situation increases the risk of system overflows, which can lead to waterborne diseases and pose a serious environmental contamination risk.”

How is GEF CReW+ intervening in Kwakwani?

“The main goal of this intervention is to provide sustainable infrastructure for wastewater treatment, utilizing biological and natural purification processes to improve water quality and protect the environment.”

“The project includes the rehabilitation of seven main septic tanks, the repair of blockages, the restoration of other damaged infrastructure, and the rehabilitation of the wastewater system. Through this initiative, the condition of the entire system has been assessed, resulting in detailed maps that allow the utility company to respond more efficiently to any issues that arise in the system.”

“In addition, the project includes the construction of an artificial wetland that offers an ecological and sustainable solution for wastewater treatment. This system works through natural filtration and purification processes that remove contaminants from wastewater before it is discharged into the environment. This improves the quality of the water returning to the ecosystem, reduces the risk of diseases, and fosters a healthier environment for the community.”

“The community has been fully involved in the project. Members of the community have been hired by the Kwakwani utility company to participate in the rehabilitation work. This not only provides a direct benefit in terms of health protection but also contributes to boosting the local economy.”

“It is expected that the project will result in a decrease in reported cases of diseases related to exposure to wastewater.”

What impact does this intervention have on the environment?

“This project aligns with the objectives of IWRM (Integrated Water Resources Management) and the circular economy—a model that aims to reduce environmental impact and optimize resource use—by closing the water cycle in the community and leveraging natural resources for wastewater treatment. Instead of relying on costly technologies that require intensive maintenance, the artificial wetland uses natural processes, making it a sustainable solution.”

“From a circular economy perspective, the artificial wetland recycles wastewater and transforms it into treated water that can be safely returned to the ecosystem. In the future, the project has the potential to promote local agriculture, as the treated water could be reused for irrigation.”

“In terms of impact, the intervention helps improve public health, reduce environmental pollution, and protect local biodiversity. It also raises awareness within the community about the importance of responsible water management and provides a replicable model for wastewater treatment in other rural areas of Guyana and the region. This holistic approach to water treatment directly contributes to the sustainable management of water resources in Kwakwani, supporting the principles of the circular economy and climate resilience.”