The United Nations Children’s Fund says in a statement that 190 million children living in 10 African countries are at extremely high risk due to the convergence of three water-related threats, including inadequate water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) services; diseases resulting from this situation; and climatic hazards.
This triple threat is proving to be the most serious, with West and Central Africa being one of the regions of the world most affected by water insecurity and climate change. Many of the hardest-hit countries, particularly those in the Sahel, also face instability and armed conflict, which further impede children’s access to clean water and sanitation.
“Africa is facing a water catastrophe. While water and climate change shocks are on the rise globally, no other continent presents such a dangerous combination of risks for children,” said Sanjay Wijesekera, Director of Programs at the United Nations Development Fund. Childhood (UNICEF), quoted in the press release.
Also according to this official, “devastating storms and floods, as well as unprecedented droughts, destroy facilities and homes, contaminate water resources, generate food crises and spread disease. While the current conditions are already extremely difficult, if we do not act urgently, the future could be even bleaker”.
The 10 high-risk countries concerned are Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Somalia and Chad.
In these territories, almost a third of children do not have access to at least basic water supply facilities in their homes, and two thirds do not have basic sanitation services. A quarter of children have no choice but to practice open defecation. Hand hygiene is also limited, with three-quarters of children unable to wash their hands due to a lack of soap and water in their homes.
These countries have the highest rate of child mortality due to illnesses caused by inadequate WASH services, such as diarrhoea. Six states experienced cholera outbreaks last year.
The UN body warns about this issue on the eve of the UN Water Conference, which will be held from March 22 to 24 in New York. According to António Guterres, the head of the UN, this Conference “must result in a bold action program on water that will give this vital element for our world the commitment it deserves”.
By OMA Newsletter N° 1096 of 20/03/2023
Article published under the direction of Dr. Najib Kettani
The OMA, NGO with an Intercontinental vocation
For the development of cultural exchanges
Valuing human potential
The promotion and consolidation of Africa’s development, and
Inter-African integration
