Panama's MIDA to build 16 water reservoirs for drought-prone 'Arco Seco' region

In response to the looming threat of the El Niño phenomenon and ongoing drought conditions, Panama's Ministry of Agricultural Development (MIDA) is launching a significant initiative to bolster water security in the country's 'Arco Seco' region.

The ministry announced plans to construct 16 water reservoirs, each with an approximate capacity of 250 cubic meters. This project represents an investment of roughly $760,000 and is specifically designed to ensure the availability of water for the various productive zones within the 'Arco Seco,' an area known for its susceptibility to drought. The reservoirs will utilize various methods, including geomembranes, polyethylene mesh, and Australian tanks, to capture and store water.

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there is a tender, in fact, it has already been uploaded to PanamaCompra, which can be accessed. It is the construction of 16 reservoirs in the different provinces, especially in the dry arc, whether with geomembrane, with polyethylene mesh, with Australian tanks. These reservoirs are a water catchment that is fundamental for everything that is coming with the phenomenon of El Niño, not only in this one, but for the near future.

Marilyn Ramírez Ferrari, from MIDA's Rural Engineering and Irrigation department, confirmed that the bidding process for the project has already been published on PanamaCompra, the national public procurement platform. She emphasized the critical role these reservoirs will play, not only in mitigating the immediate impacts of El Niño but also in securing water resources for the future. The project also involves securing water sources, such as nearby wells, to feed these reservoirs, highlighting the integrated approach to water management.

Construction is slated to commence in early November, with MIDA teams evaluating suitable locations on farms for the reservoir sites. Beyond new construction, the ministry also has long-term plans to rehabilitate existing irrigation systems, including the Lajas irrigation project in Penonomé, which aims to strengthen rice production. These efforts collectively underscore Panama's commitment to safeguarding its agricultural sector against climate-related challenges.

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When I speak of wells, for example, it is that each reservoir must have a well nearby, because we need somewhere to capture the water, because it is useless for me to build a watering hole or a reservoir without having a nearby water source.