Women's Participation Vital in Addressing Uganda's Water and Sanitation Crisis

Uganda is grappling with a water and sanitation crisis, with a significant portion of its population lacking access to safe and reliable facilities. Startling statistics from the Joint Monitoring Programme for Water Supply, Sanitation, and Hygiene (JMP) reveal that, as of 2017, only 22 percent of Ugandans had access to basic sanitation facilities. Flush or pour-flush systems connected to piped sewer systems, septic tanks, or pit latrines with slabs, or composting toilets were a luxury for the majority.

Amidst this dire situation, it becomes evident that women's participation plays a pivotal role in advancing water and sanitation systems. As primary caregivers and users of these essential services, women hold a unique perspective that is invaluable to developing effective solutions. Their involvement is crucial in shaping policies, driving initiatives, and implementing sustainable practices at the household and community levels.

In many Ugandan households, women and girls bear the burden of collecting water, a time-consuming and physically demanding task. The lack of access to safe and reliable water and sanitation facilities has far-reaching consequences on their health, education, and economic opportunities. Alarmingly, the Uganda Bureau of Statistics reports that only 40 percent of rural households have access to improved sanitation facilities, with women and girls disproportionately affected.

For women living in informal settlements and refugee camps, the situation is even more challenging. Water and sanitation facilities are often scarce or nonexistent, leaving them vulnerable to diseases and hygiene-related risks. Shockingly, as of 2022, a staggering 38 million Ugandans, approximately 83 percent of the population, lack a dependable and secure water source, while 7 million people, or 17 percent, do not have access to better sanitation options.

The consequences of inadequate sanitation infrastructure are dire, with illnesses like cholera, typhoid, and diarrhea plaguing communities, particularly impacting women and girls. This disparity calls for urgent action and highlights the need to prioritize women's participation in shaping water and sanitation policies, strategies, and interventions.

Globally, the issue of inadequate sanitation affects a staggering 4.2 billion people, according to WHO/UNICEF data. In Sub-Saharan Africa, a mere 28 percent of the population has access to basic sanitation, while a shocking 32 percent still practice open defecation, perpetuating health risks and hindering progress.

Recognizing the significance of women's participation, concerted efforts must be made to empower and engage them in decision-making processes. It is imperative to amplify their voices, provide access to education and training, and promote gender equality to ensure inclusive and sustainable water and sanitation development.

Uganda's water and sanitation crisis is a collective responsibility that demands collaboration between government bodies, NGOs, and community stakeholders. By harnessing the expertise and perspectives of women, we can pave the way for transformative change, improving the lives of millions and securing a brighter, healthier future for all.

This article was originally published in the Daily Monitor