The core problem facing urban areas arises from inadequate water supply, sanitation, and
other municipal infrastructure and services. It relates directly to the lack of funds for investments in
urban infrastructure and operations, weak sector planning and implementation capacity, and an
inadequate institutional and legal framework. Missing links in the road network, poor maintenance of
water supply infrastructure, flooding and clogged drains, and disposal of untreated waste constrain
the productive capacity of urban areas, making them less competitive and livable. Inadequate urban
infrastructure, poor management of urban services, and a weak regulatory environment also
discourage private sector investment in urban areas. Infrastructure investments need to be targeted
and based on clear strategies for urban development, including water supply and sanitation. Efforts
to strengthen sector planning, implementation capacity, and institutional framework are also needed,
such as (i) a clear hierarchy and division of responsibilities for urban management; (ii) capacity
strengthening of urban development administration authorities (UDAAs) within the country’s
decentralization framework; (iii) more flexible and appropriate land use plans to guide development;improved data collection and management specifically for urban areas; (v) greater public
awareness of urban, water, and sanitation-related health and environmental benefits; and (vi)
greater community responsibility for maintaining local green space and a clean environment.