UNICEF (WASH)

Description What is done in the programme or project and why, what results are pursued, who benefits from the activities and who are involved in the implementation.

UNICEF WASH-Programme (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) in Afghanistan aims to enhance the access and use of improved drinking water supply and sanitation facilities. It promotes also hygiene behavior. Polluted water is the main reason of mortality rate of small children. 25 % of children die before their fifth birthday. One fifth of rural populations live without decent sanitation. Geographical variation between cities and rural areas is high. WASH-Programme has the following goals: 0.3 million people have improved drinking water, 0.5 million people has access to sanitation, 750 schools and 250 health clinics have appropriate water and sanitation facilities. WASH also contributes to children’s, especially girl’s school attendance and hygiene level. The WASH-budget for 2017-18 is 25 million dollars. Finland’s contribution is 2 million Euros. Other WASH donors are: USA, South Korea, Japan and Canada. Project's last phase included 102 schools in Northern Afghanistan. 55,000 school children and 1,200 teachers benefitted from the project.