Profitable Rural Water Services: Myth or Reality?

A study unveiled at AfWASA 2025 in partnership with Open Capital

At AfWASA 2025, Africa’s leading event on water challenges, Uduma and Open Capital present their latest study on the financial viability of rural water services in Mali and Burkina Faso.

With 60% of rural populations still lacking access to safely managed water services, achieving SDG6 (universal access to safe drinking water and sanitation) remains a major global challenge. This study offers concrete solutions to build viable and sustainable operating models.

Key Insights from the Study

• Rural water services are challenging, especially in conflict-affected areas.
• Large networks can be profitable at scale but aren’t viable for remote, low-density regions.
• Smaller systems (manual pumps, solar stations) are fit for remote areas but often operate at a loss.
• A mix of large & small systems enables cross-subsidization and long-term sustainability.
• Public finance & RBF grants are essential to cover costs and help utilities scale.
• Governments & funders must support with grants, patient capital, and long-term contracts.

Want to dive deeper? Download the full study here Uduma-OCA – uduma-oca water rural services – 2025.02