WASH
Water, sanitation and hygiene
Access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) is a significant challenge in many third-world countries. Lack of access to safe water sources, proper sanitation facilities, and hygienic practices can lead to the spread of diseases and have a detrimental impact on health, education, and overall well-being. We play a crucial role in addressing these issues and implementing effective WASH initiatives in some of the poorest nations.
Our work in Chad, the Central African Republic (CAR), Sudan, and South Sudan holds great significance. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) utilizes the Human Development Index (HDI) to rank countries based on their development indicators. It is disheartening to note that, with the exception of Sudan, all the countries we operate in rank among the lowest in the HDI. South Sudan is ranked 191 of 191, Chad 190, the Central African Republic 188, and Sudan 172. These rankings place them even lower than war-torn countries like Afghanistan, Syria, and Yemen.
These statistics highlight the urgent need for intervention and support in these regions. As we strive to address the pressing issues faced by these communities, it is crucial to focus on improving their human development outcomes, including access to basic services such as clean water, sanitation, education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. By working collaboratively with local communities, governments, and international partners, we can contribute to the progress and well-being of these vulnerable populations.
Chad
According to UNICEF, only 51% of the population in Chad has access to basic water services, and just 12% have access to basic sanitation facilities. We contribute by drilling wells, constructing water points, and implementing water treatment systems to provide clean and safe water sources. We also build community latrines and promote hygiene education to improve sanitation practices.
Sudan
In Sudan, approximately 59% of the population has access to improved water sources, while access to improved sanitation facilities is limited to only 19% of the population (WHO/UNICEF). Discipline works towards expanding access to clean water through infrastructure development, water purification methods, and rainwater harvesting systems. Our sanitation initiatives include building latrines, promoting safe waste management, and conducting hygiene awareness campaigns.
South Sudan
South Sudan faces significant challenges in WASH, with only 38% of the population having access to improved water sources and 10% with access to improved sanitation facilities (WHO/UNICEF). We play a vital role by drilling boreholes, constructing hand pumps, and implementing water treatment systems to provide safe drinking water. We also promote community-led total sanitation, hygiene education, and menstrual hygiene programs.
Central African Republic (CAR)
In CAR, the water and sanitation situation is critical. Around 66% of the population lacks access to clean water, and 78% do not have access to improved sanitation facilities (WHO/UNICEF). Discipline assists by establishing water supply systems, rehabilitating water sources, and implementing water purification methods. We also construct latrines, promote safe hygiene practices, and provide hygiene kits and education.
