SEO Riders:
– SURWASH advocates for community ownership of water and sanitation facilities in Kaduna
– Kaduna residents encouraged to maintain and protect SURWASH infrastructure
– Community involvement key to sustainable water and sanitation services in Kaduna State
The Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation, and Hygiene (SURWASH) programme has called on residents of Kaduna State to take active ownership of water and sanitation facilities provided under the initiative. During an advocacy visit to the chairmen of Chikun and Igabi Local Government Areas, SURWASH State Programme Manager, Mohammed Auwal, emphasized the importance of community involvement in the planning, maintenance, and protection of these facilities to ensure their sustainability.
Auwal highlighted that neglect and misuse of facilities, such as boreholes and toilets, often lead to their deterioration, with communities expecting government intervention for repairs. He urged residents to treat these infrastructures as communal assets, encouraging the formation of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Committees (WASHCOMs) that include women, youths, elders, and vulnerable groups to oversee proper usage and maintenance. Additionally, he advocated for the establishment of local bylaws and watch groups to prevent vandalism and promote responsible use.
The SURWASH programme, supported by the World Bank, aims to improve access to clean water and sanitation services in both rural and urban areas of Kaduna State, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 6. By fostering community ownership, the initiative seeks to ensure the long-term functionality and impact of water and sanitation infrastructure across the state.
