Sierra Leone Joins the Heads of State Initiative for WASH – A Milestone for SDG6
In a significant stride towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6—ensuring access to water and sanitation for all, Sierra Leone has officially joined the Heads of State Initiative for Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH). This global movement, supported by Sanitation and Water for All (SWA), the Government of the Netherlands, and UNICEF, aims to elevate WASH as a national priority and mobilize political will and resources to address key barriers.
Government Commitment to WASH
President Julius Maada Bio has consistently emphasized the importance of improving water infrastructure systems. In a speech during the State Opening of the Third Session of the Fifth Parliament, he stated,
“Improving water infrastructure systems is an urgent need to review the 2010 National Water and Sanitation Act in order to align it with outcomes and indicators set out in Sustainable Development Goal 6”
The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation on the other hand, Dr. Sao-Kpato Hannah Isata Macarthy, has also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to advancing access to water supply and improved sanitation. In a high-level meeting on safely managed sanitation, she remarked,
“The concept of safely managed sanitation is an indication of SDG 6 and should not only be engrained in our programs and initiatives but should take prominence in the delivery of sanitation and hygiene services by government and non-state actors.”
Sierra Leone’s membership in the Heads of State Initiative for WASH is a proof of the strong leadership and commitment of the government, in collaboration with civil society organizations like WASHNet. This partnership is crucial for addressing the challenges in the WASH sector and ensuring sustainable access to water and sanitation for all in Sierra Leone.
As the country embarks on this journey, the focus will be on enhancing governance and coordination, increasing investment in WASH infrastructure and maintenance, promoting climate-resilient systems, strengthening community engagement and public awareness, and improving data management and accountability mechanisms. These efforts are essential for achieving the targets set out in SDG 6 and improving the quality of life for all citizens.
The commitment of the government, civil society, and development partners marks a new chapter in Sierra Leone’s pursuit of universal access to water and sanitation. With continued collaboration and dedication, the vision of a healthier and more resilient nation is within reach.
