WB offers Azerbaijan new solutions for efficient water management

The World Bank (WB) is ready to assist Azerbaijan in attracting financing and finding innovative solutions for more efficient water resource management, Stefanie Stallmeister, WB country manager for Azerbaijan, said on the third day of the Baku Climate Action Week (BCAW2025), Report informs.

She noted that one of the key areas of the bank's work is the introduction of irrigation systems that save water and increase its productivity.

"Innovative irrigation systems can play a significant role in achieving this dual goal. Drip irrigation or sprinkler systems are much more efficient and can reduce water consumption by 40-60% compared to traditional flood irrigation. Therefore, we actively promote, support, and recommend these solutions to countries," Stallmeister said.

She emphasized that any measures must be implemented comprehensively, in alignment with national strategies and regulations. Financing and engaging the private sector are particularly important.

"Drip irrigation, solar pumps, or modernizing irrigation systems require significant upfront investment. Such investments are often unaffordable for smallholder farmers. That's why we see the critical role of financing and finding innovative financial solutions. The World Bank can bring private sector partnerships, new technologies, and experience gained in other countries to make this transition possible," the country manager added.