As Zimbabwe grapples with the severe impacts of an El Niño-induced drought, UNICEF is urgently calling for prioritised investments in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) to enhance community resilience.
The link between access to safe water and children’s rights to health, nutrition, education, and protection is undeniable.
Without reliable water sources, children’s well-being and future are at risk.
The Current Water Crisis
Access to safe water remains a significant challenge in Zimbabwe, particularly in rural areas where only 81% of the population has access to improved water sources.
Disturbingly, nearly half of these households are located more than 500 meters from safe water sources, making it increasingly difficult to obtain this essential resource.
The current El Niño conditions have exacerbated an already dire situation.
The drought has led to the drying up of nearly 4% of boreholes in rural regions, with the hardest-hit areas being Matabeleland South and Masvingo Provinces.
By August 2024, the number of broken boreholes exceeded 6,000, and urban areas like Harare and Bulawayo are struggling to meet water production demands.
The Consequences for Children
Water scarcity not only threatens access to safe drinking water but also increases the risk of waterborne diseases and malnutrition among children.
The burden often falls on children, who may have to travel long distances to fetch water, compromising their education and exposing them to unsafe situations.
The ripple effects of this crisis can lead to school dropouts and increased vulnerability to exploitation.
A Comprehensive Response
UNICEF emphasises that the response to the current crisis must extend beyond food assistance.
Sustainable access to WASH facilities is crucial for protecting children’s rights and fostering resilience against climate-related shocks.
Ensuring consistent access to safe water can mitigate the impacts of droughts, ultimately promoting better health and nutritional outcomes for children.
To address the urgent need for water access, UNICEF is working alongside the Zimbabwean government and partners to implement several initiatives:
Rehabilitation of Water Systems: This includes repairing existing boreholes and developing new, climate-resilient solar-powered piped water systems to serve communities, health facilities, and schools.
Enhancing Water Storage: Increasing community and institutional water storage capacity is essential to manage supply during dry periods.
Promoting Hygiene Practices: Educational campaigns on safe hygiene and sanitation practices are being implemented to foster better community health.
Funding Needs and Future Steps
UNICEF has issued a call for $34 million to support the rehabilitation of water points and ensure access to safe water for those in need.
Although funding has been limited, notable progress has been made:
Over 55,000 people now have access to safe water due to the rehabilitation of 67 boreholes and the establishment of 15 solar piped water systems.
Critical water supplies, including treatment chemicals and hygiene products, have been distributed to nearly 55,000 individuals.
50 health clubs have been established in schools and communities to promote good hygiene practices during this critical time.
A Collective Responsibility
UNICEF urges the government, donor community, and partners to prioritize sustainable interventions in WASH for the welfare of children and families.
Increased funding and innovative approaches are essential to build resilience, mitigate the impacts of climate-related shocks, and protect the hard-won development gains for Zimbabwe’s children.
As we face these challenges, let us remember that ensuring access to safe water is not just a necessity; it is a fundamental right.
Together, we can foster resilient communities and secure a healthier, more sustainable future for all children in Zimbabwe.