Sabuna Gamal

Access to clean water and sanitation is a fundamental right. However, the lives of millions of children are at risk because of the lack of basic needs in Nepal. Water and sanitation-related diseases are one of the leading causes of death. Every day, children die from preventable diseases caused by poor water and a lack of sanitation and hygiene. Moreover, there are growing challenges day by day. With haphazard and rapid urbanization, solid waste, wastewater and faecal sludge generation have increased, leading to significant impact on public health with the emergence of water-borne diseases and environmental pollution. 

Different natural calamities and uncontrolled circumstances have undermined Nepal’s efforts in achieving the SDGs. The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic is not only affecting the health sector, but it is also having widespread impact on multiple sectors including sanitation services. The provision of safe water and sanitation, and waste management and hygienic conditions are essential for preventing illness and for protecting human health during all infectious disease outbreaks, including COVID-19.  Thus, I am promoting healthier lives and clean environments through building the capacity of communities to address WASH issues.

In Nepal, women and girls are more involved in WASH-related activities at the household level.  Therefore, they are more affected by the lack of access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene.  However, they also have less representation in the decision-making parts of the sector and their participation is not encouraged. Thus, it’s very important to address the current issues that prevent equitable participation of women and girls.

I have worked with people from different parts of the country and have had opportunities to interact with many females who are not involved with WASH management in their communities, but who have the drive and potential to contribute. Thus, I will continue to raise awareness and encourage female involvement and participation by facilitating capacity-building activities including trainings, orientations, and campaigns.

The SDGs cannot be achieved without paying attention to women and girls. I am committed to raising the voices of girls and women and to enhancing the capacity of stakeholders to ensure the equal participation of women in WASH, and therefore access to safe water and equitable sanitation for all.