World Bank Approves US$225 Million in IDA Grants to Restore Water and Health Services in Syria

April 23, 2026 – The World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors has approved two grants totaling $225 million from the International Development Association (IDA). This funding aims to support Syria in improving the delivery of essential public services within the water and health sectors, benefiting approximately 4.5 million citizens across the country.

State of Infrastructure and Rehabilitation Requirements

Following an extended period of instability and exceptional circumstances, Syria’s water infrastructure has sustained significant damage. Over half of the water supply networks currently require maintenance, and nearly 70% of sewage treatment plants have been affected. Total water supply has declined by approximately 40% compared to previous levels, with the annual per capita water share dropping below 700 cubic meters—falling beneath the international water scarcity threshold.

In the health sector, the system faces fragmentation, a shortage of specialized medical personnel, and a decline in primary healthcare (PHC) capacities. This necessitates an updated care model to meet current national health requirements effectively.

Emergency Water Security and Resilient Services Project

Allocated $150 million, this project focuses on restoring bulk water supply networks and urban sanitation infrastructure in high-density areas with the greatest rehabilitation needs. The project also addresses the urgent requirements of local communities and returnees.

Key activities include the rehabilitation of water treatment plants and transmission networks in Idlib, Homs, and Hama, ensuring climate resilience. Additionally, the project will prioritize the restoration of sewage treatment facilities in Damascus to mitigate environmental pollution, while supporting water resource management through dam safety assessments and hydrometeorological information systems.

Health System Recovery and Strengthening Project

With a budget of $75 million, this project aims to improve citizen access to high-quality health services and strengthen the institutional capacity of the public health system. It involves the operationalization of 150 high-impact primary health centers across Syria, prioritizing maternal and child health, nutrition, and underserved communities. The project also enhances public health capacities for early detection and response to health emergencies and supports the human resources essential for service sustainability.

The Broader Investment Context

These grants reflect the increasing engagement of international financial institutions in Syria’s recovery. This follows a separate $20 million grant approved in March 2026 for public financial management. These initiatives align with World Bank assessments from October 2025, which estimated Syria’s reconstruction costs at approximately $216 billion, with physical infrastructure at the top of the priority list.

Jean-Christophe Carret, World Bank Country Director for the Middle East, emphasized that restoring physical infrastructure and resuming basic public services are the two core pillars of Syria’s national development priorities for the current phase.

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