The decentralisation and liberalisation of many central government institutions has been the cornerstone of the Government’s initiatives to improve the economy of the Lao P.D.R. This process has resulted in the creation of many smaller yet more efficient institutions. In the water sector the Provincial Nam Papas were born from the decentralisation of Nam Papa Lao. However, the replacement of one large monopoly with many smaller local monopolies is not a perfect servant of the customers’ interests. The Water Supply Authority (WASA) has as one of its functions the responsibility to regulate these local monopolies to ensure that the customers receive the best value service possible. I am the Government appointed water supply regulator and as such I am required to carry out my responsibilities in terms of the Prime Minister’s Decision 37 (1999).

Our vision is a first class water supply infrastructure that delivers the highest service possible that represents best value to customers now and in the future. Our mission is to regulate in a way that provides a potable, sustainable and affordable water supply for all by 2015.

Mr. Noupheuak Virabouth