Statement attributable to Ettie Higgins, UNICEF Deputy Representative in Lebanon
Beirut, 04 October 2022 – “UNICEF is aware of the concerns raised in relation to the Nabaa Al Tasseh spring, a project led by the South Lebanon Water Establishment (SLWE) and the Ministry of Energy and Water.
Today, UNICEF met with representatives from environmental groups and listened to their concerns around the project. UNICEF clarified that rehabilitation works of the existing Nabaa Tasseh spring have been put on hold since 28 September following the judicial decision and is now awaiting notification of the final judicial decision. Additionally, UNICEF is awaiting the outcome of the Ministry of Environment assessment regarding the complete process of the Environmental Impact Assessment study, which began with the submission of environmental screening for Nabaa Tasseh spring project by the Ministry of Energy and Water to the Ministry of Environment on the 1st of June 2022.
UNICEF acknowledged the concerns raised by the environmental groups today and remains committed to support communities’ access to water while abiding by the Lebanese laws, environmental regulations, and the organization’s international standards.
UNICEF is an international organization working in Lebanon since 1948 to promote the rights and wellbeing of every child, in everything we do. Our Water and Sanitation (WASH) programme works across Lebanon to support the water sector projects led by the Ministry of Energy and Water and the 4 Water Establishments.
About UNICEF
Working in Lebanon for over 70 years, UNICEF works in some of the world’s toughest places, to reach the world’s most disadvantaged children. Across more than 190 countries and territories, we work for every child, everywhere, to build a better world for everyone.
For more information about UNICEF Lebanon and our work for children, visit www.unicef.org/lebanon/