An interim audit by Niger’s Court of Accounts has uncovered serious operational and governance failures at the state-owned water company, la Nigérienne des Eaux (NDE), during the 2023 and 2024 financial years. The findings point to bacterial contamination in the water supply, chronic shortages of treatment chemicals, suspected irregularities in public procurement, and questionable management practices.
Water quality falls far below WHO standards
Bacteriological tests conducted in several regional centres revealed alarming levels of bacterial presence, far exceeding the World Health Organization’s recommended limit of zero colony-forming units per 100 millilitres. The most severe results were recorded in Doutchi with 50,100 CFU/100 ml, followed by Maradi at 30,200 CFU/100 ml and Filingué at 17,120 CFU/100 ml. These figures indicate a direct threat to public health in the affected areas.
The root cause lies largely in the deteriorating distribution network, which spans 6,957 kilometres and suffers between 20,000 and 40,000 leaks annually. These pipe failures allow wastewater to seep into the system and cause pressure drops, further compromising water safety. Chlorine dosing, a critical disinfection step, is also inconsistent: under-dosing was observed in Tillabéri and Dosso, while over-dosing occurred in Niamey.
Compounding the problem, the utility faces recurring shortages of treatment products, particularly calcium hypochlorite, and uses expired reagents in its testing laboratories. As a result, the company is unable to certify the potability of the water it distributes.
Financial losses and failed contracts
The audit estimates that unbilled water losses amount to 17.9 million cubic metres per year, representing a direct revenue shortfall of about 5.3 billion CFA francs for the state. Two key public contracts have also been poorly executed.
- Network equipment contract (tender no. 001/2025): Awarded in late 2025 to Nascom for 950 million CFA francs including taxes, the main lot covering connection equipment is significantly delayed. Despite an advance payment of around 250 million CFA francs, the goods remain blocked at the manufacturer in Tunisia, freezing new customer connections.
- Treatment product renewal (tender no. 009/2026): An open call for tenders was launched in September 2026 by NDE’s general management for the urgent supply of calcium hypochlorite, highlighting the pressing need to secure water treatment plants.
Internal governance under scrutiny
The report also highlights weaknesses in internal controls and human resource management. Unilateral spending decisions, accelerated promotions that bypass standard seniority rules, and the lack of certified training programmes for network technicians are undermining the company’s technical expertise.
As the contradictory phase of the audit and the right of reply for involved parties continue, these revelations underscore the urgent need for deep structural reforms at la Nigérienne des Eaux to ensure continuity of public service and protect public health.