Brazil announces US$150mn sanitation works in Maranhão state

Brazil's ministry of cities announced an investment of 836mn reais (US$147mn) in sanitation projects in Maranhão state.

The investments will be made in projects involving the construction and expansion of treatment plants and water and sewerage networks in three cities: Barreirinhas, São Luís and Imperatriz.

In Barreirinhas, a total of 56.5mn reais will be invested, in São Luís, 493mn reais, and in Imperatriz, 287mn reais.

The investments will be made through the Brazilian government’s federal investment program, known as PAC.

"Water supply is a topic very important to President Lula [Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva], as quality water is synonymous with health. We're making progress with these three initiatives," cities minister Jader Filho said in a statement.

Along with public investment, the Brazilian government is also planning to stimulate private investments in sanitation works via concessions and PPP contracts.

Development bank BNDES is supporting the Maranhão state government with the preparation of a concession or PPP contract to be offered to private sector players.

According to BNDES information, the contract is expected to be offered in the fourth quarter of 2026.

Minas Gerais  

Separately, the government of Minas Gerais state launched a program to stimulate cities in the state to prepare and offer concessions and PPP contracts in various sectors. 

Under the Cidade Parceira program, the state government aims to provide municipalities with full technical and operational support in concession and PPP projects.

"This initiative is essential for municipalities to expand the use of concessions and PPPs in order to promote the development and sustainable growth of cities and the region," state secretary for infrastructure, mobility and partnerships, Pedro Bruno, said in a release.