Atlantic First Nations Water Authority

The Atlantic First Nations Water Authority (AFNWA) was created to manage the delivery of safe drinking water and wastewater in participating First Nations communities in Atlantic Canada. AFNWA is a First Nations owned non-profit organization incorporated under the Canada Not-for-Profit Corporations Act on July 18, 2018.

As of 2021, 15 First Nations communities have committed to AFNWA by signing Band Council Resolutions indicating their desire to formally participate. With a service approach based on social, economic, and environmental impacts, AFNWA will be responsible for the operation, maintenance, and capital upgrades of all water and wastewater assets in participating First Nations. The utility will be fully operational by Spring 2022 and led by a Board of Directors of up-to 15 Members including a majority of First Nations Chiefs and three (3) technical experts.

AFNWA will apply First Nations traditional knowledge and culture emphasizing environmental stewardship, the spiritual aspects of water, and Two-Eyed Seeing. “Two-Eyed Seeing” as defined by Albert Marshall Sr. is an approach “To see from one eye with the strengths of Indigenous ways of knowing, and to see from the other eye with the strengths of Western ways of knowing, and to use both of these eyes together.”

Elders play crucial roles in Indigenous communities, as First Nations have both formal and informal leadership. To ensure AFNWA always aligns with First Nations values, culture and knowledge, Elders will guide the Board through an advisory committee. The Elders Advisory Lodge (EAL) consists of 5 Elders approved by the Board with regional representation.

Vision

To be a recognized leader for the delivery of water and wastewater services to First Nations communities across Canada.

Mission

To provide safe, clean drinking water and wastewater in all participating First Nations communities in Atlantic Canada, delivered by a regional water authority owned and operated by First Nations.