WASH in Africa: Why Does It Matter?
Hey there! I'm thrilled to kick off my very first blog post! Over the next six blogs, we'll be focusing on water and sanitation in Africa. Expect a blend of data, real-world stories, links to academic research, and a rich discussion of different perspectives. Why Africa? Let's talk about Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH), crucial pillars of public health. The stats from the World Health Organization/United Nations Children's Fund Joint Monitoring Programme (JMP) report are frankly jarring: " 2 billion people lack access to safe drinking water ； 3.6 billion people lack access to safe sanitation ； 2.3 billion people lack access to basic hygiene services. " These aren't just numbers; they represent the daily realities of billions. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development , with its commitment to leave no one behind, emphasises the need for all, especially the most vulnerable, to have access to safe water and sanitati...