Indonesia, UNICEF Partner for Java Water Resilience

UNICEF Indonesia, in partnership with the Water Resilience Coalition (WRC), the Ministry of National Development Planning (Bappenas), local governments, and the CEO Water Mandate, has launched BERSAMA, a program designed to bolster water resilience and expand access to climate-resilient water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services in West Java's Citarum watershed.

The initiative, whose name stands for "Water Resilience for Safe Sanitation and Water," unites government bodies, civil society, and private enterprises to address critical water security and quality issues in areas vulnerable to climate change. BERSAMA supports Indonesia's national goals for improved water and sanitation access by strengthening water supply systems against climate impacts, enhancing policies, and fostering public engagement.

Indonesia faces significant water-related challenges due to climate change, with over 4,700 disasters recorded in 2025, nearly half of which were floods. These events can damage water infrastructure, contaminate water sources, and increase disease risks, disproportionately affecting children's access to essential services. "Safe water, from source to household, is fundamental to safeguarding children’s right to good health and a safe environment, especially as climate challenges become more frequent," said Maniza Zaman, UNICEF Indonesia Representative.

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Safe water, from source to household, is fundamental to safeguarding children’s right to good health and a safe environment, especially as climate challenges become more frequent. When floods, droughts, and water scarcity disrupt essential services, children are among the hardest hit. Through BERSAMA, UNICEF is pleased to join hands with the Government, the private sector, and communities to collectively strengthen water systems so that children can grow up healthy and in a safe environment.

The program's incubation phase highlights the CEO Water Mandate's role in connecting UN agencies like UNICEF with the private sector. The initial phase (2026–2028) will concentrate on two climate-vulnerable districts and 30 villages within the Citarum watershed. This phase is backed by an initial US$1 million contribution from Gap Inc. and Haleon. Beyond financial support, the partnership aims to facilitate knowledge sharing, promote collaboration, and encourage broader business involvement.

Matt Kistler, CEO of the Water Resilience Coalition, emphasized the necessity of collective action, stating, "The WRC believes that water resilience requires collective action: the collaboration of governments, communities, civil society, and businesses around shared water challenges and solutions." The WRC is proud to support this initiative, drawing on its expertise in advancing collective action for measurable water resilience outcomes.

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The WRC believes that water resilience requires collective action: the collaboration of governments, communities, civil society, and businesses around shared water challenges and solutions.