Jonathan Kunau的动态

Namibia achieves 93% access to improved water supply: Minister of Health and Social Services Kalumbi Shangula says Namibia has made remarkable progress in providing access to improved water supply. He says over 93% of the population benefits from safe water sources. Shangula was speaking during the observance of Global Handwashing Day and World Toilet Day at Otjiwarongo on Monday. Shangula said the country’s success in water provision emphasised the need for continued efforts to improve sanitation. “While we have made significant strides, open defecation and poor sanitation continue to pose challenges, particularly in rural areas,” he said. The observance of the two global advocacy days was aimed at raising awareness of the importance of sanitation and hygiene. “By celebrating these events jointly, we underscore the integral link between hand hygiene and sanitation. They represent two sides of the same coin, which are health and dignity for all,” he said. The theme for this year’s Global Handwashing Day was ‘Why are clean hands still important?’ The World Toilet Day’s theme, ‘Toilets: A Place for Peace’, emphasised the need for safe and private sanitation facilities free from unsanitary conditions or harm. According to the health minister, both themes align with Namibia’s broader objective of improving health outcomes through effective sanitation and hygiene practices. He added that these efforts also echo the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 6, which seeks to ensure the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all by 2030. Shangula said achieving the SDGs would be impossible without addressing both water and sanitation. “The linkage is clear: without clean toilets and proper handwashing facilities, achieving these goals is impossible,” he said. Despite the progress in water access, Shangula pointed out that Namibia, like many African countries, faces challenges in sanitation. He said, globally, more than 3.6 billion people lack access to proper sanitation, with sub-Saharan Africa accounting for a significant portion of this figure. Namibia, while progressing, still has work to do in reducing open defecation, particularly in rural and informal settlements, the minister said. “Epidemiologically, these deficiencies contribute to the prevalence of water-borne diseases, which are the leading causes of mortality among children under five in Africa,” he said. To address these challenges, the government has developed policies and implemented several initiatives to improve access to water and sanitation across all 14 regions. Shangula said one such initiative is the community-led total sanitation approach, which encourages communities to construct their own sanitation facilities using locally available materials. This initiative has been piloted in the Ohangwena, Kavango East, Kavango West, and…

Majority of Namibians have access to water, but sanitation remains a challenge, says Minister Shangula: Staff Reporter NAMIBIA has made commendable progress with respect to access to safe water supply, said Health and Social Services Minister Kalumbi Shangula in a speech delivered by his deputy, Ester Muinyangue, during the joint commemoration of Global Handwashing Day and World Toilet Day at Otjiwarongo on Tuesday. According to him, over 93% of the Namibian population now has access to improved water supply. “The challenge now lies in the need to make greater progress on sanitation,” he said, pointing out that open defecation and poor sanitation continue to pose challenges, particularly in rural areas. * Photos: Ministry of Health and Social Services-Namibia * Photos: Ministry of Health and Social Services-Namibia * Photos: Ministry of Health and Social Services-Namibia * Photos: Ministry of Health and Social Services-Namibia * Photos: Ministry of Health and Social Services-Namibia * Photos: Ministry of Health and Social Services-Namibia * Photos: Ministry of Health and Social Services-Namibia * Photos: Ministry of Health and Social Services-Namibia --- Shangula said: “Epidemiologically, these deficiencies contribute to the prevalence of water-borne diseases, which are the leading causes of mortality among children under five in Africa. The Government of the Republic of Namibia has developed policies and implemented several initiatives to improve access to clean water and sanitation in all fourteen regions. One such policy is our National Sanitation and Hygiene Strategy 2022-2027, which provides strategic direction for a coordinated approach in the implementation of sanitation and hygiene activities. This strategy focuses on the construction of community-based sanitation facilities and promotes education on hygienic practices.” According to him, the Government has also made significant investments to implement that strategy by providing financial resources to regional councils to accelerate access to adequate sanitation and related facilities in rural areas and all communities, especially for people with disabilities. “In addition, campaigns initiated in Namibia to eradicate open defecation have shown great promise and impact,” said Shangula. The minister said that multiple communities in different regions have been declared free of open defecation practices, but challenges persist, particularly in remote and economically disadvantaged areas. “We are striving to overcome these hurdles with innovative solutions and partnerships,” he said. The minister emphasized that hand hygiene and sanitation represent two sides of the same coin, which are health and dignity for all. “Hand hygiene,” he said, “prevents diseases and saves lives.” Hosting the commemoration of Global Handwashing Day and World Toilet Day echoes the aspirations set forth in the Sustainable…

Nigeria’s Clean Water Crisis: A Call for Sanitation Revolution. Access to clean water and proper sanitation is a fundamental human right, yet in Nigeria, these essential needs remain elusive for millions. As Africa's most populous nation, Nigeria faces a sanitation crisis that threatens public health, economic stability, and sustainable development. The interplay of poor hygienic practices and inadequate infrastructure has culminated in widespread environmental degradation and preventable illnesses, leaving vulnerable populations trapped in a cycle of poverty and poor health. The consequences of poor sanitation and lack of access to clean water in Nigeria are dire. Waterborne diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and diarrhoea remain rampant, claiming thousands of lives annually, particularly among children. According to UNICEF, over 70,000 children under the age of five die each year in Nigeria due to water-related illnesses. These alarming statistics underscore the urgent need for clean water systems and effective sanitation policies to reduce the strain on the country’s fragile healthcare system. Beyond the health implications, poor sanitation has far-reaching economic consequences. Unsafe water and inadequate hygiene cost Nigeria billions annually in lost productivity and healthcare expenses. In rural areas, women and children often spend hours fetching water from distant, often contaminated sources. These challenges limit opportunities for education and economic participation, further entrenching gender inequality and hindering the nation’s progress toward sustainable development. The roots of Nigeria's sanitation crisis can be traced to human behaviour and systemic neglect. Many communities lack awareness of basic hygiene practices, while the absence of strict enforcement of environmental laws exacerbates the problem. Open defecation, which remains prevalent in many parts of the country, contaminates water sources and endangers public health. To combat this, cultural re-education is paramount, alongside investments in sanitation infrastructure. A solution to Nigeria’s water and sanitation challenges requires a multi-faceted approach. Public health campaigns must prioritize behavioural change, promoting hygiene practices such as handwashing and safe waste disposal. Additionally, the government must prioritize investments in clean water infrastructure, particularly in underserved rural areas. International partnerships can also play a critical role, leveraging global expertise and resources to address this pressing issue. Clean water and sanitation are catalysts for societal transformation in Nigeria. By tackling these challenges, the country can reduce preventable diseases, empower marginalized communities, and foster a healthier, more productive population. The time to act is now—ensuring that clean water and sanitation are no longer privileges for the few but rights for all Nigerians.

HISTORIC MoU SIGNED BETWEEN WASH SECTOR AND NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OF ZAMBIA The Zambia NGO Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Forum is proud to announce the signing of a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Assembly of Zambia. This landmark agreement formalises the relationship between the WASH sector and the newly established Parliamentary Caucus on WASH, an initiative conceived seven months ago. The formation of the Parliamentary Caucus on WASH marks a significant milestone for the sector. This partnership is expected to enhance advocacy efforts, streamline policy implementation, and ensure sustained political commitment to improving water, sanitation, and hygiene services across Zambia. The Caucus will serve as a dedicated platform for Members of Parliament to engage with WASH issues, fostering a collaborative approach to addressing the nation’s WASH challenges. With over 102 Members of Parliament expressing interest in joining the Caucus, this initiative demonstrates a robust commitment from Zambia’s legislative body to prioritize WASH issues. The formalization of this partnership with the NGO WASH Forum underscores the importance of coordinated efforts between civil society and government to achieve sustainable development goals related to water and sanitation. The MoU represents a pivotal step towards strengthening our collective efforts to improve WASH services in Zambia. Second Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Moyo highlighted the significance of the occasion as a milestone for the National Assembly, symbolizing a strengthened commitment toward advancing water, sanitation, and hygiene in Zambia. Earlier, Parliamentary Caucus on WASH Chairperson Twaambo Mutinta, noted that the Parliament of Zambia had joined other Parliaments worldwide in supporting and building systems that are pro-water, sanitation, and hygiene. And SNV Zambia Country Director Lucy Fulgence emphasized that the parliamentary caucus WASH is a crucial platform that will enhance collaborations among members of Parliament and constituencies on water investments, leading to accelerated provision of WASH services in the country. The exercise is part of the Water Voices United (WVU) Project which is a transformative four-year project, co-funded by the European Union and Danish People's Aid and spearheaded by SNV in partnership with the NGO WASH Forum. This initiative aims to enhance the capabilities and synergies among WASH Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Zambia. By fostering the CSO role in WASH governance, the project supports the Zambian Government's efforts towards the progressive realization of the Human Right to Water and Sanitation. Together, we are not just aiming for change; we are ensuring a sustainable and equitable future where access to clean water and safe sanitation becomes a reality for all. #EUinZambia #HumanRight2Water #WaterVoicesUnited #ZambianWASHParliamentaryCaucus

The Urgent Need for Quality Water and Sanitation in Rivers State, Nigeria: Addressing the Escalating Cholera Outbreak. Introduction: Rivers State, Nigeria, is currently grappling with a severe cholera outbreak, exacerbating the urgent need for quality water and sanitation services. Cholera, a waterborne disease, thrives in environments with poor sanitation and contaminated water. Current Situation: Cholera outbreaks are symptomatic of underlying issues in water and sanitation infrastructure. In Rivers State, many communities rely on untreated surface water and private boreholes, which often do not meet health standards. The absence of a dedicated Commissioner for the State Ministry of Water Resources further complicates coordinated efforts to address these issues comprehensively. Recommendations: Rehabilitation of Existing Water Schemes at L.G.A. Level Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Rivers State need immediate rehabilitation of their existing water schemes. Many of these schemes have fallen into disrepair, resulting in inconsistent and unsafe water supplies. Rehabilitation should focus on: Repairing and upgrading water treatment facilities. Ensuring regular maintenance and operation of water supply systems. Installing modern filtration and chlorination systems to ensure water safety. This initiative will require collaboration between state and local governments, as well as engagement with international donors and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) specializing in water and sanitation. Appointment of Commissioner for State Ministry of Water Resources The immediate appointment of a Commissioner for the State Ministry of Water Resources is crucial. This role is vital for: Overseeing the implementation of water and sanitation projects. Coordinating between various stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and community groups. Monitoring and Registration of Private Boreholes and Drilling Activities Unregulated private boreholes pose significant risks to water quality. Implementing a monitoring and registration system for all private borehole. Provide guidelines and support for proper borehole construction and maintenance. Include regular water quality testing to detect and mitigate contamination. Importance of Good Water Quality to Health, Education, and Other Sectors The provision of clean water is fundamental to public health, education, and overall socio-economic development. Access to safe water reduces the incidence of waterborne diseases, decreasing healthcare costs and improving community well-being. In schools, clean water and proper sanitation facilities ensure that students can attend regularly, free from water-related illnesses. Conclusion: Addressing the cholera outbreak in Rivers State requires a multifaceted approach that includes the rehabilitation of water schemes, the appointment of a dedicated Commissioner for Water Resources, and others. Williams ThankGod,MSc Herts, MSc Uniport, PDG Uniport, B.Tech Futo

Is Public Interest Litigation (PIL) the solution for deteriorating Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) sector in KENYA? Legal Framework and Human Rights: Access to clean water and sanitation is often recognized as a fundamental human right. In many countries, constitutions or legal systems uphold the right to a clean environment, including water and sanitation services. Environmental Justice: Environmental degradation, contamination of water sources, or lack of sanitation infrastructure can lead to health crises that disproportionately affect vulnerable groups. PIL helps address these inequities. Health and Public Safety: Spread of diseases like cholera, typhoid, and diarrhea, which are linked to poor sanitation and unclean water can be addressed through litigation, courts can compel governments to prioritize public health by improving water and sanitation infrastructure, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Government Accountability: PILs hold governments accountable for their failure to meet legal obligations related to WASH. These may include national laws, international treaties, or Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 6, which focuses on clean water and sanitation for all. Community Empowerment: PIL enables community groups, NGOs, and civil society to advocate for changes in WASH policies. In many instances, affected communities lack the resources to engage in formal legal processes, and PIL gives them a voice in seeking systemic reforms. Notable and recent PIL Case Related to WASH in Kenya: Mitubell Welfare Society v. The Attorney General & 2 others [2021] Issue: Evictions and denial of access to sanitation. Summary: This case was brought by the residents of informal settlements in Nairobi, who challenged their forced eviction without proper resettlement plans that included access to sanitation and clean water. The petitioners argued that the government's actions were a violation of their right to housing and access to WASH services under Articles 43 and 28 of the Constitution. Impact: The court ruled in favor of the petitioners, affirming that evictions without ensuring access to essential services such as water and sanitation amounted to a violation of their fundamental rights. The ruling reinforced the state's obligation to respect, protect, and fulfill socio-economic rights, including the right to WASH, even during resettlement or eviction. Through PIL, WASH-related issues can be addressed in a holistic way, integrating human rights, environmental sustainability, and public health into a unified legal and social framework. Economic and Social Rights Centre- Hakijamii German WASH Network NCSU Global WaSH Cluster Water Sanitation and Hygiene Institute (WASH Institute) WASH United Sanitation Fund The Sanitation and Hygiene Fund (SHF) Public International Law Litigation Society (PILLS) PUBLIC INTEREST CIVIL LITIGATION FUND PUBLIC INTEREST LITIGATION SUPPORT

I just attended an insightful webinar on Purposeful Sanitation Service Delivery, organized by Water,Sanitation and Hygiene Voice for Women (WaSHVoice) and facilitated by Malesi Shivaji from KEWASNET. The discussions resonated deeply with the Ugandan context, prompting several reflections that I would like to share: As the landscape of sanitation services evolves with new players and innovations, there is an urgent need to critically review our approach to standards. Three key questions emerged from the conversation: ???Who bears responsibility for enforcing sanitation standards? ???What role should communities play in implementation? ???How do we ensure compliance while keeping standards simple and understandable? Key Takeaways: ·????????It's essential to communicate sanitation standards during sessions like Community-Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) triggering to foster community understanding and ownership. ·????????There’s a pressing need to review and adapt standards specifically for rural areas, ensuring they are relevant and practical. ·????????Standards for the private sector should aim to exceed current benchmarks to ensure higher quality and accountability. ·????????Public health officers require more support to effectively enforce and implement these standards within communities. A crucial insight I gained is that as we champion innovation in sanitation, we must also prioritize safety standards for sanitation workers and establish robust accountability mechanisms for private operators. I’m left pondering: How can we better bridge the gap between standard-setting and practical implementation in sanitation services? NETWAS Uganda Uganda Water and Sanitation Network (UWASNET) #WASH #PublicHealth IRCWASH

Good read

The African Sanitation Policy Guidelines (ASPG), developed in 2021 by the Secretariat of the African Ministers’ Council on Water (#AMCOW), are a critical resource shaping current efforts to improve sanitation and hygiene across the African continent. These guidelines provide clear, actionable frameworks for governments to review, revise, and develop effective #sanitation policies that drive access to safely managed sanitation. Here’s how the ASPG is actively guiding today’s WASH initiatives: ★ Inclusive #policy development: The ASPG guides national and subnational governments in creating policies that reflect local contexts and needs, ensuring no one is left behind in the drive for #universal sanitation access. ★ Key sanitation pillars: The guidelines cover everything from vision, objectives, and service levels to hygiene, regulation, capacity building, and funding, ensuring a #holistic approach to sanitation policy. ★ Implementation strategy: With actionable steps for creating effective strategies, the ASPG provides #governments with the tools to move from policy creation to practical implementation, with monitoring and evaluation at the heart of the process. As African countries adopt and align their policies with the ASPG, we see stronger, more effective WASH strategies. The ASPG is not just a set of guidelines—it is a living document currently shaping and #advancing WASH policies across Africa, paving the way for better sanitation for all. Read more about these guidelines: https://lnkd.in/dA9FuUUV #PolicyDevelopment #ChangingApproaches #Sanitation #AMCOW

regulation for off grid, non-sewered sanitation is key to achieving human rights to water and sanitation for all. We'll be at this conference to share insight on integrity risks and opportunities.