The Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Media Network, a media networking group in Bauchi State, says investing in water, sanitation and hygiene will generates substantial economic returns and development.
Chairman of the Network, Mr David Ayodele, made the assertion in an interview on Thursday, January 4, 2024, in Bauchi, the state capital.
He said that investing in water, sanitation and hygiene, not only served as a fundamental necessity for public health, education and societal benefits, but would also develop the country.
Ayodele noted that lack of access to adequate sanitation and clean drinking water as well as poor hygiene, increased the rapid spread of diseases.
“It also contributes to malnutrition, increase the number of disadvantaged women, undermine economic growth, and threaten development, peace and security.
“It creates barrier for women and girls’ education, limited care for young children, literacy, leisure and reduced opportunities to participate in the development of communities,” he said.
Mr Ayodele further stressed that investments in sanitation and drinking water would lead to increased economic productivity.
“Inadequate sanitation imposes a high economic cost through impacts on health and tourism, as well as on treatment costs.”
He explained that people without access to water and sanitation, were caught up in a vicious cycle that led to poverty, which prevented people from access to services.
The chairman, however, appealed to governments, to improve access to safe water supply, by reducing its distance from people.
Ayodele further advocated for governments to explore an approach that encompassed budget programming for the entire sector.
“This approach ideally includes key aspects such as political commitment, leadership and governance reforms, to enhance the water as an investment opportunity,” he said.
By Ahmed Kaigama
